What Is NIPT / NIPS?
NIPT and NIPS are terms commonly used for Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening. The test analyzes cell-free DNA fragments circulating in the mother's blood to estimate the likelihood of certain chromosomal conditions in the pregnancy.
Because the test requires a maternal blood sample rather than an invasive procedure, it is commonly described as a non-invasive prenatal screening test.
What Is Cell-Free DNA?
During pregnancy, small fragments of DNA associated with the placenta can be found in the mother's bloodstream. These fragments are known as cell-free DNA. NIPT uses this genetic material to screen for selected chromosomal conditions.
The amount and quality of available fetal or placental DNA can influence whether a test produces a reportable result.
What Conditions Can NIPT Screen For?
Depending on the specific test, NIPT may screen for common chromosomal conditions including:
• Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
• Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
• Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
• Certain sex chromosome conditions in selected screening panels
The conditions included in NIPT vary between laboratories and test panels. A fetal medicine specialist can explain which conditions are included in a particular test.
NIPT Is a Screening Test
NIPT is a screening test and does not by itself provide a definitive diagnosis. A high-risk or positive screening result does not necessarily mean that the baby has the condition.
When NIPT indicates an increased likelihood of a chromosomal condition, further evaluation and, when appropriate, diagnostic testing may be recommended to confirm the result.
Why Is NIPT Considered During Pregnancy?
NIPT can provide additional information about the likelihood of selected chromosomal conditions without requiring an invasive procedure. It may be considered as part of prenatal screening based on the pregnancy history, maternal factors, ultrasound findings and the individual's preferences.
NIPT does not replace routine pregnancy ultrasound. Ultrasound remains an important part of pregnancy care because structural abnormalities and other findings may not be identified through cell-free DNA screening.
NIPT and Ultrasound Assessment
NIPT and fetal ultrasound provide different types of information. NIPT evaluates genetic material in the maternal bloodstream, while ultrasound evaluates the baby's development, anatomy and other pregnancy features.
Combining appropriate genetic screening with detailed ultrasound assessment can provide a more complete approach to prenatal evaluation when clinically indicated.
How Is NIPT Performed?
NIPT is performed using a blood sample taken from the mother. The sample is processed by a specialized laboratory to analyze cell-free DNA and estimate the likelihood of selected chromosomal conditions.
The test does not require a sample to be taken directly from the baby. The appropriate timing and test selection should be discussed with the treating doctor or fetal medicine specialist.
What Does a High-Risk Result Mean?
A high-risk NIPT result means that the screening test has identified an increased likelihood of the particular chromosomal condition being screened for. It does not confirm that the condition is present.
A fetal medicine specialist can review the result along with ultrasound findings and other clinical information and discuss whether diagnostic testing or further assessment is appropriate.
What If the Test Result Is Low Risk?
A low-risk result substantially reduces the likelihood of the screened conditions, but it does not eliminate the possibility of every chromosomal or genetic condition.
Routine antenatal care and recommended ultrasound examinations should continue even when the NIPT result is low risk.
What Is a No-Call or Non-Reportable Result?
Sometimes an NIPT laboratory may not be able to provide a reportable result. This can occur for several reasons, including an insufficient amount of cell-free DNA or technical and laboratory factors.
A non-reportable result should be discussed with a fetal medicine specialist because the appropriate next step depends on the individual pregnancy and the reason for the result.
NIPT Counselling and Interpretation
Genetic counselling and specialist interpretation can help parents understand what the test can and cannot identify, the meaning of a low-risk or high-risk result, and the possible options for further evaluation.
Test results should always be interpreted in the context of the pregnancy, including ultrasound findings and relevant medical history.
Specialist NIPT / NIPS Services in Jalandhar
Promise Fetal Medicine & Pregnancy Scan Centre in Jalandhar provides specialist fetal medicine and pregnancy assessment services, including counselling related to prenatal genetic screening.
Our approach focuses on helping expectant parents understand available screening options and interpret genetic screening results alongside appropriate fetal ultrasound assessment.
Book Your NIPT Consultation
If you are considering NIPT, have received a genetic screening result, or have been advised to undergo prenatal genetic assessment, consult a fetal medicine specialist for individualized guidance.
Contact Promise Fetal Medicine & Pregnancy Scan Centre, Jalandhar, for NIPT / NIPS counselling and specialist fetal medicine evaluation.
