Noninvasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS)

Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS), also known as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), is a blood test used to check your baby’s risk level for having a chromosomal disorder and, if you choose, reveal your baby’s sex. It can be done as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy. 

How is NIPS performed? 

NIPS is a type of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) test. During pregnancy, tiny pieces of your baby’s DNA circulate in your bloodstream. These are called cell-free DNA fragments.

For NIPS, a small blood sample is taken from your arm and sent to a specialized lab, where it’s checked for certain genetic conditions. 

• Differences in the sex chromosomes (like Turner syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome)
• Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
• Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
• Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
• Your baby’s sex (if you want to know) 

Will the test detect all chromosome conditions? 
No. NIPS is a screening test, which means it tells you if your baby is more likely or less likely to have certain conditions — but it can’t give a definite answer or diagnosis.

While NIPS is very accurate for Down syndrome, your provider may recommend follow-up testing, like CVS or amniocentesis, to confirm results.

Will this test identify spina bifida?

No. NIPS can’t detect spina bifida or other physical birth differences. Spina bifida screening consists of a separate blood test between 15-20 weeks in combination with ultrasound performed between 18-22 weeks. Other physical birth differences are usually checked then as well.

Do I have to take this test?

Having any prenatal test done is a personal choice. Your provider will discuss all of your prenatal screening options with you, including NIPS. Many people choose NIPS because it’s safe, can be done early in pregnancy, and gives helpful information about their baby’s risk for certain conditions — helping them feel more prepared and informed. If you have any questions, reach out to your care team.