Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS/NIPT)
NIPS, also called NIPT or cell-free DNA screening, analyses small fragments of placental DNA in a pregnant person’s blood. It can be performed from 10 weeks of pregnancy and screens for selected chromosomal conditions.
What the Test Screens For
Depending on the panel, screening may include trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome), and selected sex-chromosome conditions. Available options and test performance vary by assay.
Screening, Not Diagnosis
NIPS estimates the chance that a condition is present; it does not confirm a diagnosis. A high-chance result should be discussed with a qualified clinician or genetic counsellor and may be followed by diagnostic testing such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.
Who Can Consider NIPS?
Prenatal screening and diagnostic-testing options should be discussed with every pregnant patient, regardless of age or baseline risk. The most appropriate option depends on gestational age, ultrasound findings, medical history, and personal preferences.
Important Limitations
- A low-chance result does not rule out every genetic or developmental condition.
- A high-chance result is not a diagnosis.
- Some samples do not produce a reportable result and require clinical follow-up.
Ask About NIPS at Jaipur Molecular Lab
Contact our team to confirm the available panel, sample requirements, reporting timeline, and counselling options.
This information is for general education and does not replace medical advice. Discuss prenatal screening and diagnostic options with your obstetric clinician or a genetic counsellor.