Understanding Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) - PrenatalSAFE Complete Plus What is Non Invasive Prenatal Testing? Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) - PrenatalSAFE Complete Plus is a revolutionary method designed to assess the risk of genetic... Read more
What is Non Invasive Prenatal Testing?
Non Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) - PrenatalSAFE Complete Plus is a revolutionary method designed to assess the risk of genetic conditions in your unborn child. This test is non-invasive, utilising a simple blood sample from the mother, which makes it safe for both the mother and the baby. Because it analyses small fragments of fetal DNA, it provides highly accurate results for conditions such as Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities.
How Does PrenatalSAFE Work?
PrenatalSAFE Complete Plus works by examining the free-floating DNA present in a pregnant woman’s bloodstream. This DNA originates from the placenta, which shares the same genetic material as the fetus. The testing process is simple and only requires a blood draw, so it is quick and convenient. Furthermore, this non-invasive approach significantly reduces the risk compared to invasive tests like amniocentesis, which carry a slight risk of miscarriage.
The Benefits of Choosing PrenatalSAFE Complete Plus
Choosing PrenatalSAFE Complete Plus offers several benefits, including early detection and peace of mind. Many parents appreciate the detailed insights into their baby’s health provided by this testing method. Additionally, because the results are generally available within a week, parents can make informed decisions about their pregnancy sooner. Therefore, NIPT is not only a convenient option but also aligns with modern parental expectations for safe and accurate prenatal care.
This prenatal blood test, sometimes known as the Safe test, checks traces of the baby’s DNA in your blood for:
- Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18)
- Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)
- Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X)
- Klinefelter syndrome
- Jacobs Syndrome
- Rare Autosomal Aneuploidies
- Genetic Deletions and Duplications
- 9 different Microdeletion Syndromes including Prader-Willi, Angelman and DiGeorge Syndrome.
- 5 Inherited Genetic Diseases including Deafness, Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Anaemia and Cystic Fybrosis
- Almost 50 De Novo diseases, which develop spontaneously during conception or fertilisation
- Gender Identification – single pregnancies and identical twins
This test is significantly more extensive than the tests offered on the NHS to high risk mothers, and can be taken by any expectant mother, regardless of risk status.
Suitable from 10 weeks pregnancy onwards, and for all single pregnancies.
Free post-test genetic counselling is provided for any results which show a positive chance of a condition affecting your baby or babies.
When will I get the results?
The results will be sent to you directly in two stages. Stage 1, approximately 10 working days of the sample being received at the laboratory. Stage 2, approximately 20 working days. The results report will clearly state whether the conditions have been detected so you can take this information to your GP for further discussion and investigation if needed.
Free post-test genetic counselling is provided for any results which show a positive chance of a condition affecting your baby or babies.
To qualify for this test you must:
- be at least 10 weeks pregnant
- have completed your first scan (private or NHS)
- complete the pre-consultation with Goodbody before the date of the blood draw appointment
Goodbody will provide a specialised testing kit to be used by a qualified professional only. The kit will contain a Buccal Cheek swab for the babies father. This is optional, but highly recommended if detection within the blood is identified and is used as a cross reference to bolster accuracy.
Read less