How Early Can You Do NIPT? Timing, Requirements, and What to Expect

Pregnancy is a time full of excitement, yet crucial decisions have to be made over whether or not to go for prenatal testing. It is the preferred method among the parents-to-be, given that NIPT informs them in an early stage about a chromosomal condition in the fetus, without having any type of risk to the fetus itself. Then, what is the best timing for the test to be taken? What does the process entail? What profile would qualify for NIPT? Learn about timelines, requirements, and expectations so you can be 100% confident when going for the test.

What is NIPT?

Non invasive prenatal test (NIPT), also known as non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS), is done when the mother is carrying the child. It involves analysing cell-free DNA from the placenta within the maternal bloodstream.

The test screens for particular chromosomal disorders, including instances of Trisomy 21, Trisomy 18, and Trisomy 13, as well as certain sex chromosome abnormalities. MedGenome offers “NIPT Advanced,” which can detect rare autosomal aneuploidies beyond the common disorders.

How early can NIPT be done?

This test can really be performed starting from about the 10th week of pregnancy.

Any sooner, and there is the chance of the results turning out to be false because there may not be sufficient fetal (placental) DNA shed into the maternal bloodstream. In order to have an accurate analysis, one must wait until approximately week 10 so that the test can identify a suitable amount of DNA in the bloodstream for detection. MedGenome has listed this as occurring “from as early as 10 weeks.”

What do you need to take the test?

NIPT constitutes a simple blood draw, whereby blood is drawn from the mother’s arm and must also be confirmed for at least 10 weeks. Maternal medical and obstetric histories, such as age, previous loss, etc., may be taken into account. Being non-invasive, the test poses no real risk to the fetus.

What to expect when you take it

Once your blood sample is collected, it is processed into a library, which is eventually sequenced. In the experimental lab, MedGenome performs NGS with a validated workflow. The turnaround is about a week for the reports, with counselling for patients on understanding the outcome. The testing offers more than accurate results, as it is highly sensitive and specific for Trisomy 21, 18, and 13, but it also has a much higher “call rate”, meaning that you would rarely get an inconclusive result and could confidently believe in the accuracy of the report.

Things to keep in mind

• NIPT is a screening, not a diagnosis. A positive result indicates a high likelihood of a chromosomal condition, but confirmation through a diagnostic test is recommended.
  
  
• Depending on which test you select, you might not detect some chromosomal anomalies or quite rare cases. MedGenome’s Advanced version covers most.
  
  
• Next, the result has to be interpreted in the context of other findings: Ultrasound, other screening tests, and medical history.
  
  
• Depending on your location, the cost, availability, and regulatory permits may vary.
  
  

Conclusion

NIPT can be done from 10 weeks of pregnancy because by then, fetal DNA is sufficiently present in maternal blood. It is useful for any couple wishing to have screening performed earlier with reliable results, especially in cases of risk factors. MedGenome ensures a rapid turnaround, validated accuracy, and counselling support from start to end. Always remember that it screens and does not diagnose.