When you are expecting a baby, your priority is the baby’s health. But is there a safe way to determine the baby’s genetic health? Yes, there is. A Non-invasive prenatal test is a simple blood test that provides insight into your baby’s genetic health before its birth. Without any invasive procedures, you can determine your baby’s health as early as seven weeks while pregnant.
If you are considering this test, the stress of not knowing how the test works and what to expect can be overwhelming. Let’s explore what the NIPT test is and how the NIPT blood test gender determination and early genetic health screening, is a game-changer in modern prenatal care. Moreover, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the test and how NIPT Blood testing at Choice DNA can provide clarity and peace of mind to parents-to-be.
What is the NIPT blood test?
The NIPT test is a noninvasive test that screens for common genetic health conditions early in pregnancy without putting your baby’s life at risk. This test involves taking the blood from the mother-to-be, which means no needles near the baby, and it’s not risky at all.
The mother’s blood carries the fetal DNA from your baby, which is also called cell-free fetal DNA. These tiny pieces contain the baby’s genetic information. Utilizing advanced analysis techniques and genetic testing methods, fetal DNA is analyzed to determine whether your baby is at risk of any chromosomal abnormality.
What is the NIPT blood test for?
This test screens for certain chromosomal conditions that can affect your baby’s development and overall health, such as:
Trisomies
These are genetic disorders caused by the presence of an extra chromosome. Early detection will help you prepare for the challenges ahead.
- Down syndrome or Trisomy 21 (with an extra copy of chromosome 21)
- Patau syndrome or Trisomy 13 (with an extra copy of chromosome 13)
- Edward’s syndrome or Trisomy 18 (with an extra copy of chromosome 18)
Microdeletions
This test analyses fetal DNA for any microdeletions. These are tiny missing pieces of chromosomes that have a significant impact on a baby’s health, including heart function, development, and the immune system. Identifying these microdeletions early will allow your healthcare provider to intervene early for possible positive outcomes.
Sex chromosome condition
This test determines the changes in the number of sex chromosomes, which are X & Y, which determine the baby’s gender. These conditions are rare and less prevalent, with no early symptoms typically present.
- Turner syndrome (when a female has one X chromosome instead of two)
- Triple X syndrome (when a female has one extra X chromosome)
- Klinefelter syndrome (when a male has an extra copy of the X chromosome along with XY)
Baby’s gender
The most popular feature of NIPT is that it allows you to determine your baby’s gender in the first trimester. Therefore, if you are planning your baby’s gender reveal party, this test will provide you with accurate answers.
How does NIPT work?
- Sample collection
The test begins with taking a blood sample from the mother.
- Lab analysis
Utilising advanced testing techniques, the lab experts extract fetal DNA from the blood. These tiny fragments or cell-free fetal DNA are then analysed and screened for certain genetic abnormalities, if any.
- Receive the results
You will receive the results within a week of sample collection. Some results will take more time if additional or detailed analysis is needed or requested.
How do I interpret the NIPT results?
When you receive the results, you can fall into one of the three categories.
- Low chance
This suggests that your baby is unlikely to have any genetic disorders. However, you must know that this NIPT is not a diagnostic test but a screening test, which will only show the likelihood of a certain condition.
- High chance
This indicates that your baby is more likely to have a certain genetic disorder, but again, this does not give you a definitive diagnosis. This will give your doctor a heads-up for further diagnostic tests for a more conclusive diagnosis.
- Not conclusive
This happens when the results are not clear or accurate because of insufficient fetal DNA or other errors.
How safe is the NIPT Blood test?
If you are considering the NIPT blood test, thinking about the process and the risky procedure can make you wonder, “Is the NIPT safe for my baby?” Yes, the noninvasive prenatal test is completely safe and risk-free for you and your baby.
Unlike traditional invasive procedures like CVS and amniocentesis, we take the mother’s blood instead of placenta samples—zero risks of miscarriages.
When should I get the NIPT test?
“How early can I get the NIPT blood test?” is what most of the mothers-to-be are curious and concerned about. You can get it done as early as 7-10 weeks of pregnancy. This test is also recommended later when an ultrasound shows some signs of genetic abnormalities.
However, if you have a family history of certain genetic health conditions, your doctor will recommend that you get it done as soon as possible. Early screening will give you early answers for potential medical interventions and positive outcomes.
Pros and Cons of NIPT
| Pros | Cons |
| Can be done in 7 weeks of pregnancy. | Detecting limited genetic health conditions. |
| Safe for the baby and the mother. | Not recommended for twin pregnancies. |
| Provide accurate results for common chromosomal conditions. | Not give a conclusive diagnosis. |
| Determine the baby’s gender early. | Can give false positives. |
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Final Thoughts
Pregnancy brings a multitude of unanswered questions and uncertainties, in addition to the joy it brings. Your baby’s health doesn’t have to be one of the uncertainties. A noninvasive prenatal test offers a safe way to assess your baby’s genetic health without taking any risks. But where can I get an NIPT Blood test near me? At Choice DNA, we are here to support your journey with thorough guidance and answer all your concerns or call us at 800-219-4362.
