Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing

Basic NIPT screens for the three most common chromosomal conditions: Down’s syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards’ syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau’s syndrome (Trisomy 13). Advanced NIPT includes everything in the basic test, but can also check for sex chromosome conditions, some rare genetic deletions (called microdeletions), and can tell you the biological sex of the baby if you choose to know. At Jeen, our genetic counsellors will help you decide which version is right for you during your consultation.

At the moment, NIPT is only offered through the NHS in certain cases. For example, if you’ve had a high-risk result from a standard screening test. At Jeen, we offer private NIPT testing with flexible options, fast results, and full clinical support, including at-home appointments and expert guidance.

Yes, NIPT can usually identify the baby’s biological sex with high accuracy, but this is completely optional. If you’d like to know, just let your genetic counsellor know during your consultation and if you’d rather not find out, we’ll make sure it’s not included in your report.

We ask you to send us your pregnancy scan so our medical team can confirm that you’re at least 10 weeks pregnant and that the pregnancy appears to be developing as expected. This helps us check that NIPT is suitable for you and that your results will be as accurate as possible. It’s also important to know that NIPT screens for certain genetic conditions only. It doesn’t look for physical or structural differences, such as heart or organ development issues, which are usually identified later through ultrasound scans. By reviewing a recent scan (performed within one week of your blood draw), our doctors can make sure there are no early concerns before going ahead with your NIPT.

Your results will usually be ready within 2–10 working days from the time your sample arrives at our partner lab. The exact turnaround time depends on which NIPT you’ve chosen and the location of the laboratory. We’ll keep you informed throughout the process and arrange a follow-up consultation to talk you through your results as soon as they’re ready. Please note that delays can occur during public holidays in both the UK and the US. If your results indicate that follow-up testing is needed for your partner, we’ll act quickly to keep everything moving smoothly. Our priority is to get you the answers you need without unnecessary delays, so you can make confident, informed decisions for your pregnancy.

You can take the NIPT from 10 weeks into your pregnancy. Before booking your test with Jeen, we ask you to send us a recent pregnancy scan, such as a dating or viability scan, so our team of specialists can confirm you’re eligible to proceed. Yes, NIPT is completely safe for both you and your baby. It’s a non-invasive blood test that only requires a small sample from your arm, and there is no physical contact with the baby. This means there is no risk of miscarriage or harm to the pregnancy, unlike some invasive procedures.

NIPT is over 99% accurate at detecting Down’s syndrome and also highly reliable for Edwards’ and Patau’s syndromes. It is more accurate than standard NHS screening and produces fewer false positive results, which means fewer people are sent for unnecessary follow-up testing.

Yes. At Jeen, we believe everyone choosing NIPT should have the opportunity to speak with a qualified midwife beforehand. This conversation helps you understand what the test can and can’t tell you, and what your results may mean for you and your baby. It’s also a chance to ask questions and feel confident in your decision. If you would prefer to speak with a genetic counsellor, we can arrange this for an additional £30. Please note that choosing a genetic counsellor will also increase the total cost of your test by £30.

If your result shows a high risk for a condition, we’ll arrange a follow-up session with one of our genetic counsellors to explain exactly what it means. You’ll be given the option to have a diagnostic test, such as amniocentesis or CVS, which can confirm the result. We’ll support you at every step, with clear information and no pressure.

No, NIPT screens for a specific set of genetic conditions, mostly involving extra or missing chromosomes. It won’t detect all birth defects or structural anomalies, such as heart defects or limb differences. That’s why it’s important to still attend all your routine scans and check-ups during pregnancy.