Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) has emerged as a modern method trusted by many expectant mothers for prenatal screening. Let’s delve deeper into NIPT with Thu Cúc TCI to grasp essential information parents should know before undergoing this procedure.
1. Purpose of Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
NIPT is performed to assess the fetus’s risk for certain genetic disorders without causing harm to the mother or fetus. Its primary purpose is to analyze the fetus’s free DNA from the mother’s blood to detect the presence of genetic abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. DNA analysis aids in assessing the fetus’s risk for genetic diseases, enabling informed decisions and better preparation for pregnancy and future care based on accurate screening results.
Non-invasive prenatal testing can identify the most common chromosomal conditions – Down’s syndrome
2. Why NIPT is a Preferred Choice for Many Expectant Mothers?
Non-invasive prenatal testing offers several advantages over traditional screening methods, making it a preferred choice among expectant mothers:
– High accuracy: Non-invasive prenatal testing typically achieves up to 99.9% accuracy, precisely determining the fetus’s risk for genetic syndromes.
– Safety and convenience: Being non-invasive, NIPT involves blood sampling from the mother, reducing risks for both mother and fetus and providing a convenient experience.
– Prompt results: NIPT results are often provided swiftly, allowing mothers more time to prepare psychologically and make effective decisions for fetal care.
– Detection of various abnormalities: Non-invasive prenatal testing not only identifies common genetic syndromes but also detects many other disorders, ensuring comprehensive information for expectant mothers.
– Preference for high-risk pregnancies: Compared to other tests like the Double test or Triple test, NIPT is prioritized for high-risk pregnancies, minimizing the need for additional testing and reducing result discrepancies.
NIPT, being non-invasive and offering high accuracy while minimizing risks, is trusted and chosen by expectant mothers despite its higher cost.
3. NIPT Procedure
Non-invasive prenatal testing is usually conducted between the 9th and 10th weeks of pregnancy when there is sufficient fetal blood for DNA analysis without invasive procedures, ensuring high accuracy in detecting genetic abnormalities and chromosomal changes.
3.1 Who Should Get a NIPT Test?
Expectant mothers, especially those in the following groups, benefit from NIPT:
– Women aged 35 and above, who have a higher risk of genetic disorders in their fetuses.
– Families with a history of genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities are encouraged to undergo screening.
– Previous abnormal screening results: If earlier screenings like the Double test or Triple test indicated high risk, NIPT offers more accurate confirmation.
– Mothers with previous genetic abnormalities in their children: Such cases increase the risk of abnormalities, and NIPT provides accurate information on chromosomal abnormalities.
– Mothers seeking precise and safe genetic anomaly identification: NIPT, being non-invasive and highly accurate, is a safe choice for assessing genetic abnormalities.
Noninvasive prenatal testing is available to all mothers after they have been pregnant for 10 weeks
3.2 Steps in NIPT Procedure
After scheduling the test, expectant mothers receive counseling and guidance on the procedure, selecting reputable healthcare facilities for effective and safe testing. The NIPT process includes:
– Information counseling: Expectant mothers receive detailed information about the non-invasive prenatal testing process, clarifying queries and understanding the types of disorders screened.
– Blood sampling: Physicians collect blood samples from the expectant mother, containing free fetal DNA providing information on potential genetic variations.
Non-invasive prenatal testing results are typically available within 7-10 days after sample collection.
– Sample analysis: Blood samples are processed and transported to the laboratory for analysis. Experts extract free fetal DNA from the blood to evaluate genetic factors and detect fetal chromosomal abnormalities.
– Result counseling: Physicians offer detailed counseling on the analysis results, addressing queries, and assisting mothers in deciding further actions. NIPT results are typically available within 7-10 days after sample collection.
These are crucial insights into non-invasive prenatal testing. For mothers interested in NIPT or requiring further consultation, please contact Thu Cuc TCI for prompt assistance.
