NIPT Explained
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) has transformed the landscape of prenatal care, offering expectant parents a safer and more accurate alternative to traditional invasive procedures.
With its ability to detect genetic abnormalities with high precision, NIPT provides invaluable insights into the health of the unborn baby while minimising risks to both mother and foetus.
This innovative technology represents a significant advancement in prenatal screening. Empowering parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy journey with confidence and peace of mind.
Is NIPT Safe?
First and foremost, the NIPT blood tests are entirely safe for both you and your baby. These tests are classed as non-invasive because they do not draw blood from the foetus, only from the pregnant woman.
It's a reassuring option for expectant parents who want to ensure the health and well-being of their unborn child without unnecessary risks.
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How Does Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) Work?
Opting for an NIPT is a good next step after your first pregnancy screening test, as it’s more accurate and can provide further information on what you discovered in the screening test. NIPT is often offered to pregnant women who have an increased risk of certain genetic conditions, such as Down's Syndrome, Edward's Syndrome or Patau's Syndrome.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing is used to screen for genetic abnormalities in the foetus without the need for invasive procedures. It involves analysing foetal DNA circulating in the mother's bloodstream.
It’s important to note that it isn’t only women who have an increased risk of having a child with a genetic condition that opts for NIPT. There are many expectant parents who want to learn more about their baby’s genetics before they’re born.
At Peek A Baby, we have 3 NIPT blood tests available at our pregnancy clinics. There are the Veracity and VERAgene tests, which can be taken from 10 weeks into pregnancy, and the Early Gender Blood Testing, which can be taken as early as 6 weeks.
NIPT Tests Explained
In addition to screening for genetic abnormalities, Peek A Baby also offers an Early Gender Blood Test, using the Official SneekPeek test. This test allows parents to find out the gender of their baby as early as 6 weeks into pregnancy, compared to the usual 16 weeks, with 99.9% accuracy!
This non-invasive prenatal test detects male Y chromosomes in a small sample of the mother's blood. If Y chromosomes are identified, the baby is a boy; if not, the baby is a girl.
The early gender detection can also be done alongside a Veracity or VERAgene test. If you would like to know more about the Early Gender Blood Test, you can find out all the details here.
Veracity
The Veracity NIPT gives pregnant women the opportunity to check for genetic conditions before they give birth. With 99.9% accuracy and no risk of miscarriage, as there is with some invasive procedures that are also available during the first trimester.
A small sample of blood is taken from the mother, and the foetal DNA present in her blood is tested directly. There are three levels of testing, to test for different types of genetic conditions.
For more information about the Veracity NIPT blood test, please click here for the page.
VERAgene
The VERAgene NIPT allows expecting parents to check for genetic conditions of their unborn baby before birth, with samples taken from both the mother and father. A blood test for the mother and a Buccal Swab for the father.
The VERAgene test provides results with an accuracy of 99.9% and uniquely screens for the most severe genetic conditions that significantly affect quality of life, not found in any other NIPT.
For additional information about the VERAgene NIPT blood test, please head over to this page.
Book in for Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) with Peek A Baby
Ready to take the next step in your prenatal care journey? Schedule your Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) appointment with Peek A Baby today!
Our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way, providing accurate and reliable results for peace of mind during your pregnancy.
All Veracity and VERAgene tests come with an early pregnancy scan courtesy of Peek A Baby. If you wish to book your test with Peek A Baby today, please complete our booking form and find the best time for you!
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