Everything you need to know about NIPT

Sponsored by Femcare

Many expectant parents want to know early on how their baby is doing and what gender it is. NIPT is a test that is performed using a standard blood sample taken from your arm and can provide early information about your pregnancy, starting as early as week 10.

When you are pregnant, small pieces of your baby's DNA are present in your blood. NIPT analyzes these small pieces and can show the likelihood of certain chromosomal abnormalities. The test is completely risk-free and is performed through a simple blood test—nothing is inserted into the stomach and the baby is not affected at all.

In this article, Femcare tells you everything you need to know about NIPT.

What is NIPT?

For many expectant parents, NIPT provides peace of mind while awaiting the next stage of pregnancy.

NIPT stands for Non-Invasive Prenatal Test, which means that it is a test that does not enter the body and does not pose any risk to the pregnancy. The test results are used to assess the likelihood of certain common chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus and to determine the sex. NIPT is performed through a blood test, and an ultrasound is often offered in conjunction with NIPT – something many expectant parents appreciate at the beginning of their pregnancy.

How does NIPT work?

During pregnancy, small fragments of fetal DNA circulate in the pregnant woman's blood via the placenta. In an NIPT test, a blood sample is taken from the arm and then analyzed in a laboratory.

The distribution of chromosomes in the DNA is examined to determine whether there is an increased likelihood of an extra set of chromosomes being present. Before sampling, an ultrasound is usually performed to:

• confirm pregnancy week
• see how many fetuses there are

What can NIPT show?

NIPT shows the probability of certain chromosomal abnormalities. Chromosomes are the genetic building blocks of the body, and normally we have two of each.

In some cases, there are three copies of a chromosome – this is called trisomy.

NIPT primarily analyzes:

• Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
• Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
• Trisomy 13 (Pataw syndrome)

Depending on the test, you can also obtain information about:

• sex chromosome abnormalities
• the sex of the fetus (if you want to know)

It is important to know that NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnosis. It shows how likely something is – not a definite yes or no.

What does the answer mean?

Low probability

The risk of chromosomal abnormalities is very small. For most people, this is reassuring news and no further tests are needed.

High probability

The risk is elevated. In such cases, we always offer consultations and the opportunity for further examinations to obtain a definitive answer. You will always receive support and clear information about the next steps.

NIPT or KUB – what is the difference?

Whether and when NIPT is offered within the public healthcare system varies between regions. Often, KUB is offered first, and NIPT may be considered in cases of increased probability or specific medical reasons. For this reason, many choose to have NIPT done privately.

KUB is another test that combines:

• blood test
• ultrasound
• the age of the pregnant woman

It provides an estimate of probability, but is less accurate and produces more false results. NIPT provides 99% accurate test results for Trisomy 21, slightly lower for Trisomy 13 and 18, and is therefore the most sensitive option.

Instead, NIPT analyzes the fetus's DNA directly, which provides greater reliability and fewer false test results. For many, this means less worry and fewer unnecessary further tests.

Are all NIPT tests the same?

No. There are different NIPT tests available, and their quality may vary.

Femcare uses Harmony NIPT, one of the world's most well-studied tests. It has been used in millions of pregnancies globally and has a very high accuracy rate.

Harmony also measures something called fetal fraction—that is, how much of the DNA in the blood sample actually comes from the fetus. This is an important quality control measure to ensure reliable results.

Option for extra supplements – for those who want to know more

For those who want even more information, there is the option of choosing an extended supplement to NIPT. This also analyzes certain more unusual, but medically relevant, chromosomal abnormalities in addition to the most common ones.

It may be right for you if:

• want as much information as possible early on
• had a previous pregnancy with abnormalities
• feel anxious and seek extra security

The supplement is made on the same blood sample and is completely voluntary.

What happens if something needs to be followed up?

If NIPT shows a high probability, further tests, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling, may be offered. These can provide a definitive answer but involve a small risk and are therefore only performed if there is reason to do so.

Remember: how you choose to proceed is always your decision.

When can I take the test?

You can have NIPT done at Femcare from as early as 10+0 weeks of pregnancy. If you choose to have NIPT done privately at Femcare, you do not need a referral.

NIPT at Femcare

At Femcare, you will be met by experienced healthcare professionals who take the time to explain, answer questions, and support you throughout the entire process. When you take your NIPT test at Femcare, you will receive your results within 2–6 days.

If the test results show no abnormalities, you will be notified via chat, and if anything needs to be followed up, we will always contact you personally. If you have not had an ultrasound before, Femcare can also help you with this, so that you can have a safe and cohesive start to your pregnancy. If you are curious about an early ultrasound, you can read more here. here.

💛 No matter how much or how little you want to know, Femcare is here to support you in your choice.

👉 Boka NIPT hos Femcare