Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing, or NIPT, is one of the most accurate screening tests available in early pregnancy. It looks at fragments of your baby’s DNA that circulate naturally in your bloodstream, giving detailed information about the chance of certain chromosomal conditions from a single blood sample - with no risk to your pregnancy.

Dr Keith Duncan offers Illumina NIPT as part of comprehensive, consultant-led antenatal care, and also as a standalone service. All of Dr Duncan's fees are outlined comprehensively on the fees page.

 

What is NIPT?

During pregnancy, small amounts of DNA from the placenta pass into the mother’s blood. NIPT analyses this cell-free DNA to assess the likelihood that the baby has a chromosomal condition. Because it only requires a blood sample from the mother, it carries no risk of miscarriage - unlike diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis or CVS. NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic one. It tells you how likely a condition is, rather than confirming it definitively. A higher-chance result is always followed by a careful conversation and, where appropriate, the offer of a diagnostic test to give you a definite answer.

 

What does NIPT screen for?

NIPT screens for the most common chromosomal conditions, including:

• Down's syndrome
• Edwards' syndrome
• Patau's syndrome

The test can also reveal the baby’s sex from 10 weeks, if you wish to know. Some expanded panels screen for additional conditions; Dr Duncan will advise which option is most appropriate for you.

 

When is NIPT carried out?

NIPT can be performed from 10 weeks of pregnancy onwards. It is often combined with an early scan to confirm your dates and check the baby’s development, so that your screening and ultrasound findings can be considered together. Results are usually available within 2-3 days.

 

How accurate is NIPT?

NIPT is highly accurate for the common trisomies - detection rates for Down syndrome are above 99%, with a very low false-positive rate. This accuracy means far fewer women are referred for invasive testing than with older screening methods. It remains a screening test, however, so any higher-chance result is confirmed with a diagnostic test before firm conclusions are drawn.

 

What happens at your appointment?

Your NIPT appointment is straightforward and unhurried:

1. Dr Duncan performs a viability scan
2. At the lab, a simple blood sample is taken from your arm - no fasting or preparation is needed.
3. Dr Duncan discusses your results with you personally and explains any next steps.

 

Your results and next steps

The great majority of results are reassuring, but if a result shows a higher chance of a condition, Dr Duncan will talk it through with you fully and, if you wish, arrange a diagnostic test such as amniocentesis or CVS to provide certainty. Throughout, you have direct access to Dr Duncan, who knows your pregnancy - so decisions are made with expert guidance and genuine support.

 

Arrange your NIPT appointment

To discuss NIPT or book an appointment, please contact us or book online. Dr Duncan will be glad to answer your questions and guide you through your options.