How does the NIPT work?

You can have the NIPT done from 12 weeks of pregnancy.

The NIPT examines DNA

The blood of the pregnant person also contains a small amount of genetic material (DNA) from the placenta. This DNA is almost always the same as that of the child. The laboratory can use this to check if there are any indications that the child has a chromosomal abnormality.

Can anyone choose to have the NIPT?

Yes, anyone can choose to have the NIPT during pregnancy.
Where can you have your blood drawn?

Your midwife can tell you more about making an appointment and where you can have your blood drawn.

The NIPT for twins

Are you expecting twins? Then you can still have the NIPT for your unborn children. You will usually receive the results within 14 days.

Identical twins 

The NIPT is just as reliable for identical twins as it is for a single baby. In case of identical twins, the children have the same genes. That is why the NIPT results are relevant for both children. If the NIPT shows an indication of a chromosomal abnormality, this applies to both children. Follow-up testing is needed to confirm the results.

Fraternal twins, triplets and more

In the case of fraternal twins, triplets and more, the NIPT is slightly less reliable than in case of a single baby. If the NIPT shows an indication of a chromosomal abnormality, it is not clear which child has this abnormality. That will require follow-up testing for both children.

Vanishing twin

A vanishing twin is a twin pregnancy in which one child dies early in the pregnancy. The ultrasound will show an empty amniotic sac (vanishing twin) next to a living child. In case of a vanishing twin, the NIPT is slightly less reliable than for a single baby.  If the NIPT shows an indication of a chromosomal abnormality, it is not clear which child has this abnormality. Follow-up testing of the living child will be needed.