NIPT: the non-invasive prenatal test explained

NIPT is a blood test that looks at your baby’s DNA in your blood. Here’s what it can and can’t tell you, when the NHS offers it, and what to think about before paying privately.

What is NIPT?

NIPT stands for non-invasive prenatal test. The NHS describes it as a more accurate screening blood test, offered as an option after a higher chance result from the combined or quad test. It is a blood test from your arm, so it doesn’t carry the miscarriage risk that CVS and amniocentesis do.

Screening, not diagnosis

This is the most important thing to know. NIPT is still screening. It gives you a chance, not an answer. Only a diagnostic test, CVS or amniocentesis, can tell you for certain whether your baby has the condition. The NHS describes those as tests that can tell you if your baby definitely has it.

So if NIPT gives you a higher chance result, you would usually be offered a diagnostic test to confirm. See CVS and amniocentesis.

When does the NHS offer it?

In England, the NHS says NIPT is one of the options after a higher chance result. The others are going straight to a diagnostic test, or having no further tests. ARC says women with results between 1 in 2 and 1 in 150 are offered NIPT or a diagnostic test. See the combined test.

ARC says NHS NIPT was introduced in Wales in 2018, Scotland in 2020 and England in 2021. Its page doesn’t mention Northern Ireland, so ask your midwife what is available there. NHS NIPT looks at Down’s, Edwards’ and Patau’s syndromes.

How accurate is it?

ARC says NIPT is more accurate than the first screening test, with a high detection rate for Down’s syndrome and less reliable results for Edwards’ and Patau’s syndromes. About 3 in 100 samples give no result, and a second blood sample may be offered. ARC says results usually take about a week to 10 days.

Paying for NIPT privately

Private NIPT is available without a higher chance result first. ARC says it is usually arranged through a healthcare professional and advises checking that the provider has a clear link with an NHS unit for follow-up. ARC gives a private cost range of £350 to £550. If you’re thinking about it:

Cost varies a lot between providers, so ask for the full price, including any follow-up.
Ask exactly which conditions it checks for.
Ask what happens if the result is a higher chance, and whether you’ll need to go back to the NHS for a diagnostic test.
Tell your midwife. They can help you understand the result.

Making the decision

Some people want as much information as early as possible. Others would rather not know. Both are valid. Antenatal Results and Choices (ARC) offers free, non-directive information and support. Its helpline is 020 7713 7486, Monday to Friday, 10am to 5.30pm, with calls on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (8pm to 10pm) arranged by emailing info@arc-uk.org. You can also text 07908 683004 (UK only).

Questions people ask

Is NIPT 100% accurate?

No. It is a screening test, so it can’t give a definite answer. Only a diagnostic test can do that.

What does NIPT check for?

Providers differ. Ask exactly which conditions the test covers and what happens after the result.

Can I have NIPT if my first screening was lower chance?

On the NHS, a lower chance result means no further tests are offered. Some people choose a private NIPT for reassurance, but it is not part of NHS care.

How long do results take?

ARC says about a week to 10 days for NHS NIPT. For a private test, ask the provider before you pay.