Reviewed by: Dr. Priyadatt Patel, Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead. Last updated: 26 May 2026.
Fetal Medicine · NIPT
NIPT – Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
A blood test that analyses cell-free fetal DNA in maternal circulation to screen for trisomies 21, 18, 13 and sex chromosome aneuploidies from 10 weeks of pregnancy.
How it works
Cell-free fetal DNA analysis
From around 10 weeks, fragments of placental DNA circulate in maternal blood. NIPT analyses this material to detect chromosomal abnormalities. Detection rates exceed 99 percent for Down syndrome with very low false positive rates.
What is tested
Standard NIPT panel
Standard NIPT screens for trisomies 21, 18, 13 and sex chromosome conditions (Turner, Klinefelter, XYY, XXX). Expanded panels test for additional microdeletions but with progressively reducing positive predictive value.
Important limitations
What NIPT does not do
- Screens chromosomal conditions only – does not detect structural anomalies
- Is a screening test, not diagnostic – positive results need CVS or amniocentesis confirmation
- Can be inconclusive in cases of low fetal fraction
- Does not replace ultrasound scanning for structural assessment
Common questions
Frequently asked
How accurate is NIPT for Down syndrome?
Detection over 99 percent with false positive rate around 0.1 percent. Among the most accurate screening tests available.
Should I have NIPT or NT scan?
Both have value. NIPT has higher detection for specific trisomies; NT scan also detects many structural anomalies. We typically recommend both for comprehensive first-trimester screening.
What if NIPT result is positive?
Positive NIPT requires diagnostic confirmation with CVS or amniocentesis before any clinical decisions are made. We provide thorough counselling at every step.
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Dr. Priyadatt Patel
Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead
MS OBGyn · Pregnancy Care · Advanced Gynaecological Ultrasound · Fertility Preservation
ESHRE / ESGE / AAGL / ASRM guideline-aligned practice. 3D Karl Storz precision technique. Fertility-preservation-first philosophy. Evidence-based decisions, honest counselling, long-term outcomes orientation.
Endometriosis
Superficial to deep infiltrating, fertility-preserving excision
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Individualised protocols, ART Level 2 lab, transparent outcomes
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3D Karl Storz precision, nerve-sparing technique
Pregnancy Care
Antenatal care, high-risk pregnancy, advanced ultrasound
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