NIPT Test in Pregnancy: A Simple Guide for Expectant Parents

As an expectant parent, you dream of giving your baby the very best, starting with their health. You’re ready to do whatever it takes to keep them safe and protected. But amidst the love and advice pouring in from parents, friends, and well-wishers, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the endless list of dos and don’ts.

One such recommendation you may have heard is the NIPT pregnancy test - a prenatal screening test suggested for many parents-to-be. If you’re feeling unsure or confused about it, you’re not alone.

Take a deep breath - we’re here to help. While all that advice comes from a place of care, the best person to guide you is your doctor. And if they’ve advised you to consider the NIPT test, this blog is just what you need.

Read on further to know everything about the  NIPT pregnancy test, so that you can feel confident, informed, and empowered to make the best choice for your baby’s future.

What is NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing)?

NIPT, short for Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing, is a test done to identify the risk of the baby being born with certain genetic abnormalities. This test analyses small fragments of DNA circulating in a pregnant woman’s bloodstream. Unlike most DNA, which is found inside the nucleus of a cell, these DNA fragments are not within the cells and are free-floating. 

During pregnancy, the mother’s bloodstream contains a mix of DNA fragments coming from her cells as well as from the placenta. The DNA of the placental cells is usually identical to the DNA of the fetus. Analysing these fetal DNA fragments from the mother’s bloodstream provides a chance for early detection of genetic abnormalities in a non-invasive way. ¹

Other tests like the chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or the amniocentesis, which are invasive, the NIPT requires a simple blood draw from the mother, causing no harm to the developing fetus.

What Does The NIPT Test Screen For?

The prenatal screening test, also known as the NIPT, screens for common chromosomal abnormalities, including: ²

Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome) - This abnormality often leads to severe developmental complications and delays
Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome) - This is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. It leads to lifelong intellectual disabilities and developmental delays, often accompanied by heart defects.
Trisomy 13 (Patau Syndrome) - This is a rare chromosomal condition that brings serious birth defects.
Sex Chromosome Aneuploidies - This abnormality brings conditions like the Turner Syndrome (XO), Klinefelter Syndrome (XXY), etc.
Fetal Sex Determination: NIPT is also used for the determination of a female baby. This is available on request and is permitted by law.
Rare Genetic Conditions: Advanced NIPT may also be used for screening microdeletions or other rare genetic conditions.

When Should You Take The NIPT Test?

The 10th week of pregnancy is considered the ideal time to take the NIPT test. Most healthcare providers recommend that women take this test in their first trimester, especially for women who are at a high risk of chromosomal abnormalities. Early detection helps parents make an informed decision about their pregnancy. ³

Who Should Consider the NIPT Test?

NIPT can be done by all pregnant women, but it is especially recommended for women who are at high risk of genetic abnormalities, including: 

• Those having a history of chromosomal abnormalities in the family.
• Women who have conceived after the age of 35 or older.
• Those who got abnormal results from the first trimester or second-trimester screening.
• Women who have had a previous pregnancy with chromosomal abnormalities.
• Those who have multiple pregnancies, carrying twins or more.

An NIPT pregnancy test should be done to ensure peace of mind and optimal health of the developing baby. 

NIPT Test Procedure: Step-by-Step

Here is how a typical NIPT test is done: ⁴

1. Doctor Consultation

You first meet with your obstetrician or genetic counselor to discuss the test and to evaluate your medical history.

2. Ultrasound

Your doctor may suggest an ultrasound first to confirm the gestational age of the fetus. The pregnancy should be at 10 weeks to perform this test.

3. Blood Sample Collection

A sample of blood (around 10 - 20 ml) is drawn from the pregnant woman’s arm.

4. Laboratory Analysis

The blood sample is then sent to a lab for further analysis. The floating cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) or the floating DNA fragments are isolated and tested.

5. Results Delivery

The reports are received within 7 to 10 working days, or sometimes even sooner.

6. Genetic Counseling

Based on the reports, the doctor may discuss your pregnancy with you. If the reports indicate a high risk of the fetus carrying chromosomal abnormalities, the doctor may suggest further diagnostic tests or explain the implications of the pregnancy to you. 

How Accurate Is the NIPT Test?

The NIPT test has one of the highest accuracy rates among prenatal screening tests:

• Trisomy 13 and 18: 91 to 96% sensitivity 
• Trisomy 21: >99% sensitivity ⁶
• False positive rates: Very low compared to traditional tests 

However, as NIPT is only a screening test and not a diagnostic test, the positive results should be further confirmed with diagnostic procedures like CVS or amniocentesis. ⁵.

Benefits of the NIPT Test

1. Safe for Fetus and Non-Invasive

The NIPT test requires only a simple blood draw from the mother’s arm, posing no harm to the fetus. Unlike other invasive tests like amniocentesis or CVS, this one is very safe.

2. High Accuracy for Common Chromosomal Abnormalities

This test offers high accuracy for detecting common chromosomal abnormalities, such as Trisomy 13, 18, 21 and sex chromosomal conditions. 6 This reduces the chances of false positives.

3. May Reduce the Need for Invasive Tests

Until there is a positive report, parents can avoid further invasive testing and diagnostic procedures such as amniocentesis, etc. 

4. Can be Done Early in the Pregnancy

This prenatal screening test can be done in the 10th week of pregnancy. Early testing enables one to make timely medical decisions and develop emotional preparedness.

5. Screens for Multiple Chromosomal Issues

Apart from the common chromosomal abnormalities, this test can also detect microdeletions in some panels. 7 It can also reveal the baby’s gender, if required.⁸

6. Gives Peace of Mind

For parents worried about the genetic health of their baby, this test can give reassurance and peace of mind. It also helps them make informed choices and plan confidently. Some parents can discuss with their doctor if they wish to retain the pregnancy after getting positive results.  

How Much Does the NIPT Test Cost in India?

In India, the NIPT test cost typically between ₹10,000 to ₹25,000, depending on:

• The city or lab
• The number of conditions being screened
• Whether advanced panels (like microdeletions) are included

Some comprehensive packages might go up to ₹30,000 or more. Pre and post-counselling sessions may incur extra costs.

How to Prepare for Your NIPT Appointment

The NIPT pregnancy test is quite simple and requires no preparation. However, ensure that you follow the instructions below:

• There is no fasting required. 
• It is advised to stay hydrated to make the blood draw easier.
• Carry your doctor’s prescription or referral.
• Discuss your family history or previous screening results with your doctor before getting tested.
• It is better to bring your partner along for emotional support.

What Do NIPT Results Mean?

An NIPT report will show whether the pregnancy is ‘Low Risk’ or ‘High Risk’ for the tested conditions. Here is what it means:⁹

Low Risk: This report means that the chance of the baby having that condition is very less. However, a low-risk report does not guarantee the absence of all genetic conditions.
High Risk: This means that the pregnancy may have an increased risk of that condition, and further testing is required.

Why Choose [LifeCell Diagnostics] for NIPT?

You need a highly trusted partner when it comes to your baby’s health. LifeCell is one of India’s leading names in prenatal and stem cell testing. Thousands of families and doctors have put their faith in our services since our inception. Here is why you should choose us:

• Fast turnaround time with easy online access to reports
• NABL and CAP-accredited labs that ensure world-class testing accuracy.
• Comprehensive genetic counselling - both before and after the test.
• Advanced test panels that screen for a wider range of chromosomal abnormalities.
• Pan-India doorstep sample collection for ease and convenience.

LifeCell Diagnostics’s NIPT - All Chromosomes test is an accurate and trusted prenatal screening option that helps you gain confidence, clarity and accurate reports about your pregnancy. 

Conclusion 

The NIPT pregnancy test is a game-changer for detecting genetic abnormalities in a developing baby. It is non-invasive, safe and highly accurate. Any expecting mother with a risk of genetic disorders should consider this prenatal screening test to rule out any complications early on. 

With LifeCell by your side, you can now continue your pregnancy journey without any worries. 

FAQs

What is the NIPT test for pregnancy?

The NIPT test for pregnancy is a non-invasive screening test that detects the risk of certain genetic abnormalities in the fetus using a blood sample from the mother.

Is a NIPT test necessary in pregnancy?

The NIPT test is not mandatory, but recommended in pregnancies that have a high risk of genetic conditions. Women over the age of 35 or those with a family history of genetic deformities should consider getting tested.

How much does NIPT cost?

The NIPT test in India usually costs around ₹10,000–₹25,000, depending on the panel and lab. Comprehensive panels may cost more, up to ₹30,000.