Benefits of Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

By Ashleigh Bouguenon

12 April 2023

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a safe and reliable method that determines the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in a developing fetus. NIPT has increasingly become part of routine prenatal screening due to its many benefits which include:

  • Early detection: NIPT can provide a detailed analysis of the fetal chromosomes as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy. This allows expectant parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy, including whether to pursue additional diagnostic testing.
  • Safe and non-invasive: Unlike traditional invasive prenatal tests such as amniocentesis, NIPT poses no risk to the developing fetus. The test is performed using a simple blood draw from the mother, making it a low-risk option for expectant parents.
  • High accuracy: NIPT has a high accuracy rate, typically over 99%, making it a reliable method for determining the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, trisomy 18, and trisomy 13.
  • TriScreen offers value-adds like convenient 3 and 6-month payment plans, bespoke blood draw services and assistance with medical aid reimbursement, as well as access to a diverse and local team of clinical specialists and a genetic counsellor.

In conclusion, NIPT is a safe, non-invasive, and accurate method that can determine the risk of chromosomal abnormalities early in pregnancy. As prenatal healthcare continues to evolve, NIPT will play an increasingly important role in helping expectant parents make informed decisions regarding their pregnancy.