What is NIPT?

NIPT — non-invasive prenatal testing, also called NIPS for non-invasive prenatal screening — is a blood test taken from your arm that estimates the chance your baby has certain chromosome conditions. It works by analysing small fragments of DNA circulating in your blood. Some of that DNA comes from the placenta, and the placenta usually has the same chromosomes as the baby. That word "usually" matters, and it explains most of what follows. The DNA analysed comes from the placenta, not directly from the baby — so like CVS, it may not always reflect the baby's true chromosomes. The most important thing to understand: NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnosis. It tells you whether the chance is increased or decreased. It cannot tell you whether your baby definitely does or does not have a condition. Only a diagnostic test — CVS or amniocentesis — can do that. ACMG now recommends this screening for all pregnant women, in preference to older blood screening tests, because it detects more and produces fewer false alarms. It is entirely optional. Screening for chromosome conditions is not a routine test you must have, and it is completely acceptable to decline it.