What Noninvasive Prenatal

Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a screening test that can be performed during pregnancy to assess the risk of certain genetic conditions in the fetus. NIPT is typically performed using a blood sample from the mother and can provide information about the fetus's chromosomes, as well as the risk of certain genetic disorders. Some common NIPT tests include:

Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing: This test analyzes fragments of DNA from the placenta that circulate in the mother's blood. cfDNA testing can be used to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome and trisomy 18.

Maternal serum screening: This test measures the levels of certain substances in the mother's blood, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Maternal serum screening can be used to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, as well as neural tube defects, such as spina bifida.

Combined screening: This test combines the results of cfDNA testing and maternal serum screening to provide a more accurate risk assessment for certain genetic conditions.

NIPT is generally considered to be a safe and accurate screening test, but it is important to note that it is not a diagnostic test. If NIPT results indicate an increased risk of a genetic condition, further testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.