NIPT
Published 8 November 2026, 22:44
NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test)
A test of the mother's blood, which contains the baby's DNA: it shows the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and the baby's sex. It can be done from week 10 of pregnancy, privately and for a fee, at laboratories. It does not replace first-trimester screening: PAPP-A, beta-hCG and the ultrasound scan assess other risks, including pre-eclampsia.
Where you come across it. The first trimester of pregnancy, discussing screening with your doctor.
If the test is done too early, it may give no result because there is too little of the baby's DNA in the blood; in that case it is repeated.