There are many reasons why expectant parents opt for Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) to assess any possible risks of chromosomal abnormalities in the unborn child.
However, carrying some basic ideas before opting for NIPT tests will be useful, as there are many levels of NIPT investigations, and depending on the test goals, the NIPT testing cost will also vary.
Generally, NIPT suits all pregnant mothers in the age group of 35 and above. Sometimes, it is also an expert follow-up to ultrasound tests already done. However, these days many women prefer to carry out NIPT even if there are no concerns of risk factors, as it gives peace of mind.
Goals of NIPT investigations
The sensitive screening test of NIPT is very effective in identifying the risk of common trisomies such as Down syndrome, Patau syndrome, and Edwards syndrome.
The NIPT unveils the necessary information about an unborn baby’s health, helping parents to make informed decisions for a safer pregnancy journey, including any additional diagnostic tests. The best part is that NIPT strips away the anxiety of parents with the early insights into a baby’s potential health status and concerns associated with the pregnancy.
The test procedure of NIPT is quite simple compared to amniocentesis or CVS, or chorionic villus sampling. The NIPT poses no risk to the fetus or the pregnancy.
How NIPT Works and How It Differs from Other Prenatal Tests
In the NIPT analysis the fetal DNA in the mother’s blood is examined for clues on the baby’s genetic health. NIPT testing is allowed from 10 weeks of pregnancy and more. It is recognized that fetal DNA will be limited in a pregnant woman’s blood before 10 weeks of the pregnancy stage.
Remember that NIPT testing costs are linked to the condition it is checking for. Generally, NIPT is highly accurate in tracing Down syndrome and is credited for fewer false positives than other prenatal screenings like the Quad screen.
The Quad screen test, or the quadruple marker test, is a prenatal screening test performed during the second trimester of pregnancy. This checks any birth defects and genetic conditions in the fetus by specific substances in the mother’s blood, such as alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), estriol, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and inhibin A.
Go for the best NIPT provider
For expectant parents there is the comfort of finding many reputed NIPT testing marketing providers in the medical market offering rational NIPT testing costs. Among them, Medgenome stands out with its competitive rates and high reliability.
As far as the cost of NIPT in India is concerned, there is no uniform rate. The costs can vary depending on the city, healthcare provider, and the conditions tested. On a rough estimate, it can be said that the average costs of NIPT in India will range from Rs 8,000 ($100) to 30,000, or around $360. If the parents want advanced tests covering a wide range of conditions, then the costs will exceed the standard rates.
Thanks to well-known NIPT testing agencies, the NIPT testing costs in India are comparatively lower than in other countries. That is why top NIPT test providers in India are attracting vast clientele and making the country a hub of the best prenatal care.
Wrapping Up
NIPT is a safe and trusted choice for parents in India. Knowing the cost and options helps you feel confident and prepared during pregnancy. Choosing a good provider gives you correct results and peace of mind. Taking this step early can help you give your baby a healthy start in life.