NIPT Test In India

NIPT Test In India:

The Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) has become one of the most advanced and reliable prenatal screening methods available today. NIPT is a simple blood test for expectant mothers that analyzes fragments of fetal DNA in the bloodstream. Unlike invasive methods such as amniocentesis or CVS, which involve inserting a needle into the womb and carry miscarriage risks, NIPT is completely safe for both mother and baby. It mainly screens for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13). Advanced NIPT versions can also detect sex chromosome abnormalities, microdeletions, and in some cases, reveal the baby’s gender (where legally allowed).

In India, awareness and demand for NIPT are rising as more couples see its value in ensuring a healthy pregnancy. With advances in biotechnology and accredited genetic labs, the test is now widely available in major cities and is reaching semi-urban areas too. Expectant parents choose NIPT for its accuracy, safety, and the early reassurance it offers, as it can be done from the 10th week of pregnancy.

NIPT in India is particularly beneficial for women with high-risk pregnancies, those above 35 years of age, or couples with a family history of genetic conditions. By offering reliable information early in pregnancy, it allows doctors and parents to make better-informed medical and personal decisions. This has positioned NIPT as a vital tool in modern prenatal care, bridging the gap between advanced genetic science and everyday healthcare for families.

How Does NIPT Test Works?

The Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) analyzes small DNA fragments, called cell-free DNA (cfDNA), present in the mother’s bloodstream during pregnancy. These fragments come from both the mother’s cells and the placenta, which reflects the fetus’s genetic makeup. A healthcare professional collects a small blood sample from the mother’s arm and uses advanced methods like Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) or quantitative analysis to study the cfDNA.

The laboratory then compares the number of specific chromosome fragments to expected normal patterns. If an extra chromosome or missing portion is found, it may indicate abnormalities like Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), or Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome). Unlike traditional screenings that use ultrasound or biochemical tests, NIPT offers over 99% accuracy for common trisomies. It avoids invasive procedures like amniotic fluid or placental sampling, removing risks to the baby and ensuring safety for the mother. NIPT can be done as early as the 10th week, giving parents and doctors early reassurance and valuable guidance for prenatal care.

Who Should Consider NIPT Test?

1. Women aged 35 years and above: Advanced maternal age increases the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).
2. Women with a family history of genetic disorders: Expectant mothers who have close relatives affected by chromosomal or inherited conditions may benefit from NIPT to assess potential risks.
3. Women with abnormal results in preliminary screenings: If first-trimester combined tests or second-trimester biochemical screenings show abnormal or inconclusive results, NIPT can provide more accurate confirmation before invasive testing.
4. Women who had a previous child with chromosomal abnormalities: Parents with a history of delivering a child affected by conditions like Down syndrome are often advised to undergo NIPT in subsequent pregnancies.
5. Women with multiple miscarriages or pregnancy complications: Repeated pregnancy losses may indicate underlying chromosomal issues, and NIPT can help identify risks early in the next pregnancy.
6. Women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART), including IVF: Pregnancies achieved through IVF or other fertility treatments may be recommended for NIPT as part of enhanced prenatal monitoring.
7. Women carrying twins or multiples: NIPT can screen for chromosomal conditions in multiple pregnancies, although interpretation may be more complex compared to single pregnancies.
8. Couples seeking reassurance and peace of mind: Even in low-risk pregnancies, parents may choose NIPT for early, safe, and reliable information about their baby’s chromosomal health.

why is nipt test done?

Doctors perform the Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) to screen for chromosomal abnormalities in a developing fetus, giving expectant parents early and reliable information about their baby’s health. This test analyzes fragments of fetal DNA that circulate in the mother’s blood to detect conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13). Unlike traditional methods, NIPT does not involve invasive procedures, making it completely safe for both mother and baby. Doctors often recommend this test for women of advanced maternal age, those with a family history of genetic disorders, or pregnancies identified as high-risk through preliminary screenings. By offering results as early as the 10th week of pregnancy with over 99% accuracy for common conditions, NIPT helps reduce anxiety and supports informed decision-making. It also empowers families to plan medical care, lifestyle adjustments, or further diagnostic testing if necessary.

At what stage of pregnancy can NIPT be performed?

Doctors can perform NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) as early as the 10th week of pregnancy, making it one of the earliest and most reliable screening options. At this stage, enough fetal DNA fragments (cell-free DNA) are present in the mother’s blood for accurate analysis. The test uses a simple blood sample, and specialized labs examine it to detect conditions like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. Early testing provides parents with timely information about their baby’s health, helping them prepare for any necessary care. Unlike invasive procedures such as amniocentesis, NIPT carries no risk to the fetus, making it a safer choice for prenatal screening. Doctors often recommend it for high-risk pregnancies but it is suitable for all expecting mothers.

Advantages of NIPT Test:

• Early Detection: NIPT can be performed as early as the 10th week of pregnancy, allowing timely insights into the baby’s health.
• High Accuracy: It offers higher sensitivity and specificity compared to traditional blood tests, reducing the chances of false positives or negatives.
• Non-Invasive and Safe: Since it only requires a maternal blood sample, it poses no risk of miscarriage or harm to the mother and baby, unlike invasive tests such as amniocentesis.
• Detection of Common Chromosomal Abnormalities: NIPT can effectively screen for conditions like Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).
• Useful in High-Risk Pregnancies: It is especially beneficial for women of advanced maternal age, those with abnormal ultrasound findings, or with a history of genetic conditions.
• Reduces Need for Invasive Testing: By providing reliable results, NIPT can minimize the number of women who undergo invasive diagnostic procedures unnecessarily.
• Peace of Mind for Parents: The test offers reassurance to expecting parents by providing early and clear information about the baby’s chromosomal health.
• Compatibility with Singleton and Twin Pregnancies: NIPT can be used in both single and multiple pregnancies, although interpretation may vary.

Benefits of NIPT Test:

• Safe for Mother and Baby – Requires only a blood sample from the mother, avoiding the risks linked to invasive procedures.
• Early Screening – Can be done as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy, giving parents valuable information sooner.
• Highly Accurate – Provides reliable results for detecting common chromosomal abnormalities with fewer false positives.
• Reduces Stress – Helps ease anxiety for expectant parents by offering clear insights into the baby’s genetic health.
• Minimizes Invasive Tests – Lowers the need for procedures like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling unless absolutely necessary.
• Supports High-Risk Pregnancies – Especially helpful for women of advanced maternal age or with a family history of genetic disorders.
• Covers Multiple Conditions – Screens for Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau syndrome, and sex chromosome abnormalities.
• Quick Turnaround Time – Results are typically available within one to two weeks, allowing faster decision-making.
• Improves Pregnancy Planning – Enables parents and doctors to prepare early for medical care or interventions if needed.
• Peace of Mind – Offers reassurance and confidence during pregnancy by providing accurate genetic insights.

What are the limitations of NIPT Test?

• NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test, so it cannot confirm conditions with complete certainty.
• Positive results usually require follow-up diagnostic tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling for confirmation.
• The test mainly detects common chromosomal disorders (e.g., Down, Edwards, and Patau syndromes) but cannot identify all genetic or structural abnormalities.
• Low fetal DNA fraction in the mother’s blood may lead to inconclusive or less accurate results.
• Certain factors, such as high maternal weight, multiple pregnancies, or specific medical conditions, can reduce accuracy.
• NIPT does not provide information about neural tube defects or other non-chromosomal conditions.
• False positives and false negatives, though rare, can still occur.
• The test is often more expensive compared to traditional prenatal screenings, which may limit accessibility.
• Receiving high-risk results may cause emotional stress and anxiety for expectant parents while awaiting further confirmation.
• Ethical concerns may arise, especially regarding decision-making based on early genetic information.

Is the NIPT test safe for the mother and baby?

Yes, the NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) is safe for both mother and baby as it only needs a blood sample from the mother. Unlike invasive tests such as amniocentesis or CVS, which use needles and carry a small miscarriage risk, NIPT has no risk to the fetus. It analyzes cell-free fetal DNA fragments that naturally circulate in the mother’s blood during pregnancy. Since the process does not involve touching or disturbing the womb, it ensures maximum safety and comfort for the mother. This makes it an ideal first-line screening test for expectant mothers who wish to know about chromosomal abnormalities in a non-invasive manner. Its accuracy, combined with its risk-free nature, has made NIPT a highly recommended choice for both low-risk and high-risk pregnancies in India and worldwide.

How accurate is the NIPT test?

At My Genetic DNA Center, NIPT tests in India maintain high accuracy through advanced technology, strict laboratory protocols, and expert analysis, ensuring reliable and trustworthy results for clinical and personal needs.

The NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) is more accurate than traditional screening methods, making it a trusted option for early detection of chromosomal abnormalities. It can detect Down syndrome (Trisomy 21) with over 99% accuracy and is also reliable for identifying Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18) and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13). The test studies cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) in the mother’s blood to provide a clear genetic view of the fetus. Though it is a screening test and not diagnostic, it has much lower false-positive and false-negative rates than conventional methods. Rarely, factors like low fetal fraction or maternal health issues may affect results, but overall, NIPT is a precise and dependable tool that helps parents make informed decisions early in pregnancy.

What conditions can NIPT Test detect?

The NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) screens for chromosomal abnormalities in a developing fetus with high accuracy. It primarily detects Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21, along with Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18) and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13), both linked to severe health issues. Advanced panels can also identify sex chromosome abnormalities such as Turner syndrome (monosomy X) and Klinefelter syndrome (XXY). Some labs offer extended panels to detect microdeletions and duplications, which are small genetic changes tied to specific disorders. Though not diagnostic, NIPT provides early and reliable insights, making it a valuable tool for prenatal care and planning.

Cost of NIPT Test in India:

The cost of NIPT in India varies based on the laboratory, city, and type of test panel chosen. On average, it ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹40,000, with advanced panels costing more. Though more expensive than conventional screenings like the double or triple marker tests, NIPT offers significant benefits. NIPT offers accurate, non-invasive, and early detection of chromosomal abnormalities, reducing the need for risky procedures like amniocentesis. For many parents, the reassurance of reliable results is invaluable. Accredited centers in India are also making NIPT more accessible through flexible packages, discounts, and installment options, helping families choose this advanced screening without heavy financial burden.

NIPT Test Turnaround Time for Results:

In India, NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) results typically take 7 to 14 working days, depending on the lab, location, and test panel. After collecting the mother’s blood sample, cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) is isolated and analyzed using advanced sequencing and bioinformatics. Some top labs in major cities provide reports within a week, while centers that send samples to specialized facilities may take longer. The duration may also vary if additional chromosomal conditions are included in the screening panel. Despite this waiting period, the accuracy and early insights offered by NIPT make it a preferred choice for expectant parents. Accredited labs generally provide results through secure reports, along with post-test counseling to help families understand the findings and make informed decisions about further medical care.

NIPT vs. Traditional Prenatal Screening:

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) and traditional prenatal screening methods differ significantly in terms of accuracy, safety, and the range of information they provide. Traditional screenings, such as the first-trimester combined test or the second-trimester quadruple test, rely on ultrasound markers and maternal blood hormone levels to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities. While these tests are relatively affordable and widely accessible, they have a higher false-positive rate, often leading to unnecessary anxiety and follow-up invasive procedures like amniocentesis.

In contrast, NIPT analyzes small fragments of cell-free fetal DNA present in the mother’s blood, providing highly accurate results with a detection rate of over 99% for common chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. Another key advantage of NIPT is its non-invasive nature, which eliminates the risk of miscarriage associated with invasive diagnostic methods. Although NIPT is more expensive and not available in all regions, its precision, early testing window (from the 10th week of pregnancy), and reduced need for invasive follow-ups make it a superior option for expectant parents seeking reliable prenatal screening.

Legal and Ethical Aspects of NIPT Test in India:

The legal and ethical aspects of NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) in India are important considerations, as the test involves sensitive genetic information about the unborn child. Healthcare providers must conduct NIPT under strict ethical guidelines to ensure responsible use. In India, authorities strictly prohibit using prenatal testing for gender determination under the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act. Laboratories and healthcare providers must comply with this law to prevent unethical practices and safeguard against sex-selective abortions.

Additionally, informed consent is a crucial requirement, ensuring that parents clearly understand the scope, limitations, and implications of the test before proceeding. Genetic information is highly sensitive, so healthcare providers must ensure confidentiality and data privacy with utmost security. Legally, only accredited and certified laboratories conduct NIPT, maintaining standardized protocols and reliable results. Ethically, counseling plays an important role in helping parents interpret the findings correctly, avoiding miscommunication or unnecessary distress. Overall, NIPT empowers parents with valuable insights into fetal health, but authorities must regulate it with strong legal safeguards and ethical responsibility to ensure it benefits families without causing discrimination, misuse, or emotional harm.

Post-Test Counseling for NIPT Test:

Post-test counseling for NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a crucial step that ensures expectant parents fully understand the results and their implications. Since NIPT provides information about the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome, counseling helps in interpreting whether the results indicate a low or high risk rather than providing a definitive diagnosis. Genetic counselors or trained healthcare professionals play a vital role in explaining the findings clearly, addressing any concerns, and helping parents differentiate between screening and diagnostic outcomes.

In cases where the results indicate a higher risk, counselors may recommend confirmatory diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) to establish a definitive diagnosis. Beyond medical interpretation, counseling also supports parents emotionally by reducing anxiety, clarifying misconceptions, and providing guidance on available healthcare options. Healthcare providers maintain ethical and cultural sensitivity throughout the process, supporting and empowering parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy. By combining medical expertise with empathetic communication, post-test counseling ensures that NIPT results are not only clinically useful but also lead to well-informed and confident decision-making.

Do I need a doctor’s prescription for NIPT Test?

In India, expectant parents need a doctor’s prescription for NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) because medical supervision is required. Since the test analyzes cell-free fetal DNA to detect chromosomal abnormalities, a healthcare provider ensures it suits the pregnancy and health condition. Doctors typically recommend NIPT for women with advanced maternal age, abnormal ultrasounds, a family history of genetic conditions, or other risk factors. A prescription also helps the diagnostic center or laboratory follow proper protocols, ensuring accuracy and reliability of results. Doctors play an important role in interpreting NIPT outcomes, as the test provides risk-based assessments rather than definitive diagnoses. Therefore, expectant parents should consult a gynecologist or maternal-fetal medicine specialist before undergoing NIPT to ensure safe and informed prenatal care.

Can NIPT Test in india replace invasive diagnostic tests like amniocentesis?

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) cannot fully replace invasive tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS). It detects common chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome with high accuracy but remains a screening, not a diagnostic, test. This means that NIPT provides a risk assessment rather than a definitive confirmation. When NIPT results show a high risk of abnormality, doctors often recommend invasive tests like amniocentesis to confirm the findings. NIPT’s advantages include its non-invasive nature, early testing window, and high accuracy, which reduce unnecessary invasive procedures. However, for legal, clinical, or high-risk cases, doctors rely on invasive diagnostic tests as the gold standard.

How long does it take to get results for NIPT Test in India?

At My Genetic DNA Center, NIPT test results are usually available within 7 to 10 days, as the process involves DNA extraction, sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and clinical interpretation to provide accurate insights into genetic variations.

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) results usually arrive within 7 to 14 working days, depending on the laboratory and location. After collecting the mother’s blood sample, specialists process and analyze it using advanced genomic sequencing techniques to detect chromosomal abnormalities. Some specialized labs deliver results quickly, while others take longer when they require additional analysis. This timeline allows expectant parents to receive timely information about their baby’s health, helping them make informed decisions during pregnancy.

How to book an appointment for NIPT Test in India?

My Genetic DNA Center offers its services across various locations in India. For example, currently, we are providing services in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Surat, Jaipur, Lucknow, Kanpur, Nagpur, Indore, Bhopal, Patna, Coimbatore, Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, Madurai, Chandigarh, Gurugram (Gurgaon), Noida, Faridabad, Kochi, Thiruvananthapuram, Bhubaneswar, Ranchi, Dehradun, Mysuru (Mysore), and many more. Moreover, if the service is not available near your location feel free to call us at + 91 9381967096 our team will arrange a free home collection for you.

Conclusion:

The NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) has emerged as a groundbreaking advancement in prenatal care in India, offering expectant parents a safe, reliable, and early method of screening for chromosomal abnormalities. Unlike traditional invasive procedures, NIPT minimizes risks to both mother and baby while providing highly accurate insights into fetal health. Its growing availability across major cities and towns has made it a preferred choice for families seeking peace of mind during pregnancy. Although the test may be costlier than conventional screenings, its precision, non-invasive nature, and ability to detect potential conditions at an early stage make it a worthwhile investment in prenatal health. Furthermore, with accredited laboratories, genetic counseling, and supportive medical guidance, NIPT empowers parents to make informed and confident decisions. As awareness grows and technology becomes more accessible, NIPT will play a key role in ensuring safer pregnancies and improving maternal-fetal care in India.

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