What are NIPT Tests?

What we know

A non-invasive pre-natal test (NIPT) is an extra screening test some couples choose to have to check for chromosomal abnormalities at 10-14 weeks, alongside the NHS Dating & Nuchal Translucency scan. It is also known as cell-free DNA screening and the two most common types of NIPT are called the Harmony and Panorama Tests.

The NIPT assesses the risk of your baby having certain conditions, such as Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau’s Syndrome (Trisomy 13).

The NIPT is not offered routinely in most NHS hospitals and is an additional test that women can choose to get privately if they wish. The cost of the test varies between each clinic, but usually costs between £400-600.

How does it work?

You can have the NIPT from around 9-10 weeks of your pregnancy, when a small amount of your baby’s DNA will have entered your bloodstream. This means a blood sample can be taken from a vein in your arm and the DNA of your baby can be analysed.

An NIPT can also tell you the sex of your baby, if you want to find out and don’t want to wait until your Anomaly scan at 20 weeks.

As the NIPT test involves only a blood test for you, there is no risk to the baby, unlike other more invasive procedures.

But won’t I be screened for this anyway?

Yes, the NHS screening programme offers all pregnant women blood tests and a scan at 10-14 weeks to assess your chance of having a baby with these conditions.

The sonographer will look at the baby’s nose and skin fold at the back of the neck to check for any abnormalities. These results will be combined with some blood test results and combined to give you a risk of your baby having different chromosomal abnormalities.

This method of screening for these conditions is less accurate than the NIPT test. Some people choose to pay for an NIPT due to the increased accuracy rate, or if they are at any increased risk of having a baby with one of these conditions, e.g. if they are above 35 years old or have a personal or family history of these disorders.

The Harmony and Panorama tests

These are the names of two of the most common types of NIPT that clinics may offer. They both involve a blood test for mum and have very similar accuracy rates. The clinic you are visiting will explain which test they offer and why.

You will need to sign consent forms before having an ultrasound to check the baby is healthy and growing well and a blood test. The blood sample is then packaged and sent to a laboratory for analysing.

The time it takes to get your results back will depend on the clinic you visited, but it usually takes between 3-7 days. Occasionally, you will get an inconclusive or failed result, meaning it cannot give you a clear answer. Your clinical team will explain what the next steps would be in this instance, but usually they recommend having a repeat test.

The tests can also tell you the gender of your baby by looking at their X or Y chromosomes, if you wish to find out.

The NIPT tests can also be used for twin pregnancies, donor and surrogate pregnancies.

Are there any risks in having this test?

There is no increased miscarriage risk to your baby from having the NIPT as it only involves a blood test for the mum.

What if an abnormality is found?

An NIPT is a screening test rather than a diagnostic test, which means it evaluates the risk of there being a disorder – so the result will be either “Low Risk” or “High Risk” of having a condition. If it is deemed high risk the team will explain what your further options are, which may involve offering further tests to confirm the findings. You will be given support by the team to understand your options and to make any decisions.

Where can I get further information and support?

Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) runs a helpline 0845 077 2290 or 020 7137 7486.

The Down’s Syndrome Association

SOFT UK offers support and information for families affected by Edward’s syndrome (T18) or Patau’s syndrome (T13).