Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing is a test during pregnancy that identifies chromosomal abnormalities in the developing foetus. This looks for a small amount of the baby’s DNA in the mother’s bloodstream, also called as cell-free DNA.

The blood is drawn from the to-be mother in the same way as in any other test. The sample is then sent to a lab to screen for chromosomal abnormalities. The cost of this test is minimal when compared to the info you can receive about your baby’s hereditary profile from this test.

Who Should Take the NIPT test?
This test is recommended for every pregnant woman, as per the guidelines of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists .

There is no need to worry if the doctor recommends NIPT screening. It does not mean that he/she suspects wrong with your fetus. In the past, this was suggested only for women 35 years and above and who had chromosomal disorders.

Another important thing to remember is that NIPT is a screening test. It means that it can only tell about the likelihood of high risk of the baby suffering from a chromosomal issue. But it does not mean that there is a definite genetic problem in your child. There is a need to have a diagnostic test for validation regarding the genetic status of the baby.

When to Take the NIPT Test?
The test is recommended as early as your 10th week of pregnancy. Preferably, yes or no about the test should be decided as early as it can be in pregnancy before first prenatal visit.

What Does NIPT Screen For?
This screening test analyse the common genetic ailments. These are some genetic issues comprised in the test:
•    Down Syndrome
•    Edward Syndrome 
•    Patau Syndrome

If the NIPT test report is positive, it means that the fetus might be suffering from a chromosomal disorder. In this case, a genetic counsellor will discuss with you in detail about the personal and medical history and tell you about the other tests that need to be administered.

The prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities is increasing in this world, and this is forcing the mothers to go for the NIPT, and hence the demand for the same is increasing all over the world, and the value will touch $9,229 million in 2030.