Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS)

Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS)

A small amount of fetal DNA is present in your blood while you are pregnant. NIPS is a blood test that analyzes this fetal DNA to see if there is an extra chromosome 13, 18, or 21 that could cause a chromosomal condition. The test can also screen for extra or missing sex chromosomes X and Y.

Who can have NIPS? 

Anyone who is pregnant can choose to have NIPS. 

NIPS has mainly been offered to patients at higher risk for a chromosome condition during pregnancy. For example, higher risk includes: 

  • You are 35 years or older at delivery
  • You had a previous child or pregnancy with a chromosome condition

This test can also provide risk assessment for a lower risk pregnancy. 

What is a chromosomal condition?

  • One common chromosomal condition is Down syndrome. This is caused by having an extra chromosome 21 (trisomy 21). The extra chromosome causes learning and growth differences and other possible birth defects.
  • An extra chromosome 13 causes the disorder trisomy 13
  • An extra chromosome 18 causes the disorder trisomy 18

These two disorders are more severe but less common than Down syndrome.

Sex chromosome conditions can cause a range of physical and developmental differences, but are typically less severe than Down syndrome.

How accurate is the test? 

Although the test is very reliable, it is not perfect. About 1 percent of tests do not provide a result.

  • A normal or negative result means your baby has a very low chance of having these chromosome conditions. 
  • An abnormal or positive result means your baby has an increased chance of having one of these chromosome conditions. 
    • There is a chance the NIPS result may be positive even though the baby is normal. 
    • Further testing is recommended to confirm a positive NIPS result.  

When is the test available?

You can have your blood drawn any time after 10 weeks gestation. Results of NIPS take 10 to 14 days. 

An ultrasound may also be scheduled between 12 to 14 weeks. The ultrasound will provide an early assessment for birth defects. The ultrasound is not required as part of the NIPS risk assessment for chromosome conditions.

What else should I know before deciding if NIPS is right for me?

All prenatal screens and tests for birth defects are optional. For many parents, non-invasive prenatal screening will provide reassurance. 

However, NIPS could tell you if there is an increased chance your baby has a serious condition that cannot be changed. When this occurs, parents may find this prenatal testing information helpful for managing their pregnancy and delivery.

Does health insurance cover NIPS?

Some health insurance plans cover the cost of NIPS. If the test is covered, you may still have an out of pocket co-pay and deductible. Check your insurance plan.

You can also ask your provider about a personalized cost estimate from the testing lab.

 

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