Are you pregnant and want to learn more about your baby early on? You may have heard of NIPS. It is one of the most popular tests for mums-to-be in Ireland. But what is it? And how does it work?
Let us walk you through it.
What is NIPS?
NIPS stands for Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening. You might also see it called NIPT. It is a simple blood test done with an ultrasound scan.
As your baby grows, tiny bits of their DNA pass into your blood. The test looks at this DNA. It checks for signs of certain conditions that affect your baby’s chromosomes.
It is safe. It is quick. And it is one of the earliest tests you can have.
What does NIPS look for?
NIPS checks for three main conditions.
Down syndrome, also called Trisomy 21. This is the most common one. It can cause learning needs and sometimes heart or health issues.
Edwards syndrome, also called Trisomy 18. This is rare but serious.
Patau syndrome, also called Trisomy 13. This is also rare and serious.
You can also find out if you are having a boy or a girl. This is included at no extra cost.
When can you have NIPS?
You can have the test from 10 weeks of pregnancy. We suggest you book from 10 weeks and 2 days. This gives the best chance of a clear result the first time.
If you have a higher BMI, we suggest you wait until 11 weeks. This is because the amount of baby DNA in your blood may be a bit lower. Waiting a short time helps the test work better.
How does the test work?
There are two parts to the test.
First, you will have a scan. This checks that all is well with your pregnancy. It also checks if you are having twins.
Then, we take a small blood sample from your arm. That is it.
We suggest you have the scan and blood test on the same day. It is quicker and easier for you.
One tip from our team. Drink lots of water before your visit. This is key in the days before and on the day of your test. It helps us take your blood more easily and makes the whole thing more comfortable for you.
How accurate is NIPS?
NIPS is very accurate. It picks up over 99 percent of cases of Down syndrome.
But it is good to know that NIPS is a screening test. It is not the same as a full diagnosis. There is a small chance of a false result. This means the test may flag something that is not there. Or it may miss something rare.
If your result does raise a concern, we will not leave you on your own. Our team will refer you to the right specialist. They will run more tests to check things fully. You will be looked after and kept informed at every step.
What happens after the test?
You will get your results in about one week. We will be in touch to talk you through them.
It is also good to know that NIPS does not take the place of your other scans. It does not check for things like spina bifida. It does not track how your baby is growing. So please still go to all of your pregnancy scans and check-ups.
Who can have NIPS?
You can have NIPS if you are at least 10 weeks along. It works if you got pregnant on your own or through IVF. It also works with donor eggs. And it is fine if you are having twins.
For twins, the sex result comes as one answer. If male DNA shows up, one or both may be boys. If not, both are girls.
There are a few cases where NIPS may not suit. For instance, if you had a blood transfusion in the last four months. Or if you have had a bone marrow or organ transplant. Our team will guide you if any of this applies.
Where can you get NIPS in Ireland?
We offer NIPS at three of our clinics.
📍Bray, County Wicklow
📍Grafton Street, Dublin 2
📍Gorey, County Wexford
Each one is run by our team of specialist sonographers. They are here to care for you and your family at every stage.
How much does NIPS cost?
NIPS starts from €500 at The Ultrasound Suite. You pay a deposit of €120 when you book. This covers your scan and holds your slot. The rest, which is €380, is paid on the day after the blood test is done.
Ready to book your NIPS screening?
If you want to find out more about NIPS, or if you are ready to book, we are here for you.
You can book here, or you can call any of our clinics.
📞 Bray — 01 903 9650
📞 Grafton Street — 01 903 9649
📞 Gorey — 053 930 4380
We are here to support you every step of the way.