How Does NIPT Work?

During pregnancy, tiny fragments of DNA from the placenta leak into the mother's bloodstream. Since the placenta usually has the exact same genetic makeup as the baby, scientists can analyze these fragments—called "cell-free DNA"—to look for chromosomal abnormalities.

Because NIPT only requires a standard blood draw from the mother's arm, it poses zero risk of miscarriage, unlike Invasive Diagnostic Procedures such as Amniocentesis or CVS.

What Does NIPT Screen For?

NIPT is highly specialized in detecting "aneuploidies," which occur when there are extra or missing chromosomes. The test primarily screens for:

• Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): The most common chromosomal condition. NIPT is over 99% accurate in detecting it.
• Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18): Often associated with severe developmental delays.
• Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): Associated with severe intellectual disability and physical abnormalities.
• Sex Chromosome Abnormalities: Such as Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X) or Klinefelter Syndrome (XXY).

Why Choose NIPT Over Traditional Screenings?

While the NT Scan and Double Marker tests are excellent, NIPT offers several distinct advantages:

1. Earlier Answers: NIPT can be performed as early as 10 weeks pregnancy.
2. Superior Accuracy: NIPT has a much lower "false positive" rate than traditional blood screenings. This means fewer women are unnecessarily worried or referred for invasive tests.
3. Comprehensive Coverage: It provides a deeper genetic insight than ultrasound alone can provide in the first trimester.

Is NIPT Right for You?

While NIPT is available to all pregnant women, it is particularly recommended for those with:

• Advanced maternal age (35 or older).
• A personal or family history of chromosomal disorders.
• An "increased risk" result from a first-trimester Fetal Imaging & Screening (NT Scan).

It is important to remember that NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic one. If the NIPT returns a "high-risk" result, our specialists will guide you through a confirmatory Invasive Diagnostic Procedure to get a definitive answer.

Why Choose Ashoka Women & Children Hospital?

Genetic information is sensitive and requires expert handling and interpretation.

• Expert Genetic Counseling: We don't just hand you a report. Our fetal medicine specialists sit with you to explain the results, the probabilities, and the next steps in your care.
• High-End Laboratory Integration: We partner with the world's leading genetic laboratories to ensure your sample is analyzed using the most advanced sequencing technology available.
• Integrated Maternity Care: If a genetic concern is identified, your entire care team—from your Maternity Care obstetrician to our Level III NICU neonatologists—is immediately aligned to support you.

Knowledge is Peace of Mind

NIPT represents the perfect marriage of safety and science. By choosing NIPT, you are taking a proactive step toward a healthy pregnancy and a well-planned future for your child.

At Ashoka Women & Children Hospital, we believe in the power of early, accurate information for a healthy life.