Landspitali - University Hospital
Prenatal diagnosis 22B
Table of contents
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT)
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a blood test offered during pregnancy. It analyses DNA from the placenta found in the mother's blood to assess the chance of the baby having certain chromosomal conditions.
NIPT screens for conditions caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13, 18 or 21, including Down's syndrome (trisomy 21). In some cases, the sex chromosomes (X and Y) are also examined.
NIPT involves a simple blood test.
The blood test does not increase the risk of miscarriage.
Results are usually available within approximately 10 days.
NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. This means it can indicate whether there is an increased chance of a chromosomal condition, but it cannot confirm a diagnosis. If the results indicate an increased chance, further diagnostic testing will be offered.
What is the difference between NIPT and prenatal diagnostic testing?
NIPT – screening test | Prenatal diagnostic testing |
|---|---|
A blood sample is taken from the mother. | A sample is taken from the placenta or amniotic fluid. |
Assesses the chance of certain chromosomal conditions. | Can confirm certain chromosomal or genetic conditions. |
Does not increase the risk of miscarriage. | Involves a small risk of miscarriage due to the sampling procedure. |
Results are usually available within approximately 10 days. | Results may take from a few days to several week |
Further information
No test can detect all genetic conditions in a baby. A midwife or doctor can explain which tests may be appropriate during pregnancy, what they can detect and their limitations.
For more detailed information about the tests, results and their limitations, see the leaflet Prenatal genetic testing – non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) and prenatal diagnostic testing (in Icelandic).