Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing
Gestation Required: From 9 Weeks
Information on Prenatal Screening and NIPT Tests
In collaboration with the Bray Women’s Health Centre, we provide three screening package options, each comprising a blood test and a scan.
Most infants are born healthy and develop normally. However, a small number may have genetic conditions such as Down Syndrome.
Early detection of many of these conditions is possible through our range of non-invasive screening tests, including ultrasound and maternal blood testing.
Risk Assessment Screening Options
These risk assessment screening options vary in accuracy. A high-risk result indicates a likelihood that the baby has the genetic condition tested for, but it is not definitive. Confirmatory diagnostic tests, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, are recommended in such cases.
A scan is performed alongside the blood test to confirm viability, gestational dating, and the number of fetuses. This is a simple diagnostic scan for the specified information.
How to book
To book these packages, please call Bray Women’s Health Centre reception:
Unsure of your due date?
Click here to use our due date calculator to find out.
Prenatal Screening Packages
To book these packages, please call Bray Women’s Health Centre reception at 012761522.
All blood tests are conducted at Bray Women’s Health Centre, while the ultrasound can be performed at any clinic.
We recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure you get a convenient appointment time.
Cost: €580
Accuracy: >99%
How long it takes to get results: 5 working days.
Exclusions (Tests that cannot be done.): Nil
Preformed at: 10+ Weeks
This test screens for the following disorders:
- Gender
- Down’s Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Edward Syndrome (Trisomy 18)
- Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)
- Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X)
- Kleinfelter Syndrome (XXY)
- Jacob Syndrome (XYY)
- Triple XXX
- XXYY
Cost: €560
Accuracy: >99%
How long it takes to get results: 10 working days.
Exclusions (Tests that cannot be done.): IVF donor egg
Preformed at: 9+ Weeks
This test screens for the following disorders:
- Gender
- Down’s Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Edward Syndrome (Trisomy 18)
- Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)
- Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X)
- Kleinfelter Syndrome (XXY)
- Jacob Syndrome (XYY)
- Triple XXX
- XXYY
- Di George (22q11.2 deletion)
Cost: €680
Accuracy: >99%
How long it takes to get results: 10 working days.
Exclusions (Tests that cannot be done.): IVF donor egg
Preformed at: 9+ Weeks
This test screens for the following disorders:
- Gender
- Down’s Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Edward Syndrome (Trisomy 18)
- Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)
- Turner Syndrome (Monosomy X)
- Kleinfelter Syndrome (XXY)
- Jacob Syndrome (XYY)
- Triple XXX
- XXYY
- Di George (22q11.2 deletion)
- 1p36 Deletion
- 5p-/cri-du-chat syndrome
- Angleman syndrome (15q11.2 deletion maternal)
- Prader Willi (15q11.2 deletion paternal)
FAQ's
What is non-invasive prenatal testing?
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) analyses cell-free fetal DNA in the mother’s blood. It screens for Down syndrome (trisomy 21) and other conditions such as Edward’s syndrome (trisomy 18) and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13), as well as X and Y chromosome conditions. This simple blood test must be performed in conjunction with a dating ultrasound.
The fetus’s sex can be determined with >99% accuracy, and the accuracy for detecting other sex chromosome anomalies varies by condition. Importantly, less than 1% of women need invasive testing (amniocentesis or CVS) after undergoing NIPT. If the results indicate a high risk for one of the conditions, it does not definitively mean the fetus has the condition, but it is highly likely. Therefore, in such cases, we recommend amniocentesis or CVS. These tests are specific to the mentioned conditions and do not rule out all fetal and pregnancy-related abnormalities.
Why might I be called for a retest?
While most patients receive conclusive results, there is a higher likelihood of inconclusive results for mothers weighing over 85kg, those using blood thinners such as Clexane, IVF pregnancies, and twin pregnancies.
This can cause unnecessary concern and require repeating the test. If you fall into one of these categories, we recommend waiting until 11 or 12 weeks (or later) to perform your NIPT, as fetal fraction increases with gestational age, reducing the likelihood of inconclusive results.
Why should I get a Nuchal Translucency Scan?
The nuchal scan screens for Down’s Syndrome, Edwards’ Syndrome, and Patau’s Syndrome. This assessment considers the mother’s age, fetal heart rate, levels of two hormones in the mother’s blood (free ß-hCG and PAPP-A), and scan findings, including nuchal translucency thickness (fluid behind the baby’s neck), nasal bone, and any fetal abnormalities. Parents will receive comprehensive counselling about the significance of these risks and the options for further investigations, including invasive testing or NIPT.
What is the accuracy rate for Nuchal Translucency Screening?
We follow the Fetal Medicine Foundation’s recommended protocol, where blood tests are done at 10 weeks and the scan at 12 weeks.
This approach increases detection rates by up to 94%. It requires two separate visits, but we prioritise achieving the highest accuracy.
If scheduling this way is challenging, blood tests can be performed from 9 weeks 0 days to 13 weeks 6 days, and the scan from 11 weeks 2 days to 13 weeks 6 days. Booking the scan independently, without the blood tests, results in about 75% accuracy.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, and the Society for Maternal–Fetal Medicine recommend using ultrasound measurement in the first trimester as the most accurate method to establish or confirm gestational age. The earlier this measurement is performed, the more accurate the estimated gestational age and due date, provided the baby is developed enough to actually measure (6 weeks plus).
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Julia Trendak2023-10-27We had a beautiful experience in the Ultrasound Suite with the sonographer Diana for our 3D/4D scan. The premises are very comfortable, I had 2 people with me for this scan and we all enjoyed it. The equipment and room set up is excellent and we genuinely felt very catered to in the time we spent with Diana. Thank you so much!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.E L2023-10-25I had my pelvic ultrasound with Olesia. Olesia immediately put my mind at ease. She was so gentle, caring and sensitive towards my concerns. The room itself has a very relaxing ambiance which helps!Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Tayla Tzirulnik2023-09-14Great location, professional, pleasing ambiance. I had my medical exam (abdominal & pelvis) with Deborah Sudding. Loving chat and explanation.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Emer Gibbons2023-07-21Fantastic staff and image qualityTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Sarah Reaburn2023-04-25I had a very good experience at this ultrasound clinic. They got me in the same day. Our sonographer was extremely professional and provided all the information we are looking for. They were very fast with providing pictures and details. They were also very kind during a sensitive time.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Ionela Ionescu2023-04-06I couldn't recommend The Ultrasound Suite enough . Olesia made such a difficult experience more beareble with her professionalism, absolutely amazing care and compasion. Thank you !Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Jozef Krajňák2022-11-22I would highly recommend Ultrasound Suit on Grafton st. I had an ultrasound of the pelvic and abdomen with Diana. She was fab and professional. Got an appointment within a few daysTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.Leah Sawate2022-11-15Had my scan with Diana and I could not commend her enough for how professional and reassuring she was throughout the whole process.Showing our latest reviews
Take home Package
The ultrasound suite offers a fantastic package for expectant parents to take home after their pregnancy scan.
This comprehensive package includes a detailed ultrasound report and two glossy photograph printouts, capturing precious moments in high-quality images.
Additionally, digital pictures and a video clip of the scan are conveniently sent to you via SMS or email, ensuring that these cherished memories are easily accessible and shareable with loved ones.
Meet
Our Sonographers
Deborah Sudding
Director and Clinical Specialist Sonographer
Danyelle Howard Hill
Lead Clinical Specialist Sonographer
Diana Ciornei
Clinical Specialist Sonographer
Olesia Cabric
Clinical Specialist Sonographer
Rebecca Falnes
Clinical Specialist Sonographer
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