Pregnancy is a journey of anticipation, hope, and careful planning. At Patki Hospital, Kolhapur, we believe in empowering expectant parents with the right information to make informed decisions. One of the most advanced and reassuring tools in modern prenatal care is NIPT – Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about NIPT: what it is, when it’s done, what it detects, and how safe it is for you and your baby.
What is NIPT?
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) is a highly accurate screening test that analyzes fragments of your baby’s DNA that circulate in your blood during pregnancy. It is designed to detect certain chromosomal conditions without any risk to your baby.
Unlike traditional invasive tests like amniocentesis, which carry a small risk of miscarriage, NIPT is done through a simple blood draw from the mother — making it completely safe and non-invasive.
When is NIPT Done?
You can do NIPT as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy. Early testing gives more time for decisions and planning.
What Does NIPT Detect?
NIPT screens for common chromosomal abnormalities such as:
Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18)
Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)
Is NIPT Safe?
Yes. NIPT is completely safe for both the mother and the baby. It involves no needles or instruments inside the womb, only a blood sample from the mother’s arm.
Because it is non-invasive, there is no risk of miscarriage, making it an ideal first-line screening test, especially for women with high-risk pregnancies or advanced maternal age.
How Accurate is NIPT?
NIPT is highly accurate, especially for Down syndrome, with a detection rate of over 99% and a very low false-positive rate. However, it’s important to remember:
NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test.
A positive result means further testing (like amniocentesis or CVS) may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis.
Who Should Consider NIPT?
NIPT is suitable for most pregnant women, but especially recommended for:
Women over the age of 35
Those with a family history of chromosomal disorders
Abnormal ultrasound findings
Previous pregnancies with genetic conditions
Couples seeking early and accurate peace of mind
Conclusion
NIPT is a revolutionary tool in prenatal screening, offering early, safe, and highly accurate information about your baby’s health. At Patki Hospital Kolhapur, our experienced team is committed to providing the best prenatal care, combining compassion with cutting-edge technology.
Whether you’re planning for pregnancy or already expecting, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Your journey to motherhood deserves the best care — trust Patki Hospital.