What is NIPS and How It Is Transforming Prenatal Care

Non-invasive Prenatal Screening (NIPS) analyses cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) circulating in maternal blood to assess fetal chromosomal status without invasive sampling. During pregnancy, trophoblastic cells from the placenta release DNA fragments into the maternal bloodstream; NIPS selectively evaluates these fragments to screen for common aneuploidies. Because the test requires only a maternal blood draw, it avoids the traditional procedure related miscarriage risk. This safety advantage has changed prenatal care by enabling earlier, broadly accessible screening.

NIPS demonstrates high sensitivity and specificity for major trisomies: reported detection rates approximate 99% for trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), 97-98% for trisomy 18 (Edward syndrome), and about 95% for trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome). Leading professional societies including ACOG, SMFM, ACMG, and the International Society for Prenatal Diagnosis endorse NIPS as the most effective screening modality currently available. While NIPS substantially improves risk assessment, it remains a screening test; positive or diagnostic uncertainty should prompt confirmatory diagnostic testing and genetic counseling to guide clinical decision-making.

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Accuracy
0%+
Down Syndrome Detection Rate

The highest detection rate available for Trisomy 21, providing clear answers early in pregnancy.

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Precision
0%
Patau Syndrome Detection

Exceptional analytical sensitivity ensuring reliable identification of Trisomy 13.

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Timing
0 Weeks
Earliest Testing Age

Gain critical genetic insights starting as early as 10 weeks into your pregnancy journey.

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Speed
0-14 Days
Average Turnaround Time

Fast, reliable results delivered quickly so you can make informed decisions without the wait.

What NIPS Screens For

Understanding what NIPS can and cannot detect helps inform your decision.

01
Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)

Detection: 99%
Most common chromosomal condition. Intellectual disability range from mild to moderate. Early detection enables informed preparation and family support.

02
Edward Syndrome (Trisomy 18)

Detection: 97-98%
Severe condition with multiple birth defects. Difficult prognosis. Early detection enables informed decision-making about pregnancy continuation.

03
Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13)

Detection: 95%
Rare but serious condition. Severe skeletal deformities and major organ defects. Early detection allows pregnancy planning.

04
Expanded Screening (Optional)

Expanded Screening Includes
In addition to basic NIPS, it also includes detection of specific microdelections including 22q11 deletion, 1p36 deletions, and others.

05
What NIPS Doesn't Screen For

Neural tube defects (spina bifida), heart defects, cleft palate, most gene mutations. NIPS screens for common chromosomal abnormalities, not all possible birth defects.

NIPS for Your Pregnancy Situation

Six common pregnancy situations where NIPS provides valuable information and reassurance

01
Age 35 and Over

NIPS provides accurate risk assessment regardless of age. Women over 35 can have early NIPS (10+ weeks) for rapid reassurance or informed planning.

02
Family History Concerns

When family includes Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, or other chromosomal conditions, NIPS assesses current pregnancy's specific risk early.

03
Abnormal First Trimester Screening

When first trimester screening shows abnormal results, NIPS quickly clarifies whether chromosomal abnormality is present with accuracy.

04
Twin and Multiple Pregnancies

NIPS can assess chromosomal risk in twin pregnancies safely without miscarriage risk of invasive testing.

05
Reassurance Testing

Even without specific risk factors, some pregnant women choose NIPS for genetic reassurance and peace of mind during pregnancy.

06
NIPS Accuracy

Industry-leading precision with lowest false-positive rates for a healthy pregnancy.

NIPS vs. Other Prenatal Screening Methods

Feature NIPS Other Screening Methods
Miscarriage Risk Limited Limited
Down Syndrome Detection 99% 90%
Test Timing 10+ weeks 11-14 weeks
Sample Type Blood only Ultrasound+Blood
Confidence Level High Moderate
Cost MRP 18000 MRP 25000 & above
Invasiveness None-Minimal None-Minimal

How NIPS Works: Five Simple Steps

From blood draw to results, NIPS is a straightforward, transparent process.

1
Sample Collection
A standard blood draw is performed at any authorized collection center, similar to routine blood testing. The sample is collected in specialized NIPS tubes with none to minimal discomfort.
2
Sample Processing
The sample is securely transported to the laboratory, where cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) is extracted. Quality control measures ensure adequate fetal fraction for reliable analysis.
3
DNA Sequencing & Analysis
The extracted DNA undergoes advanced sequencing, followed by bioinformatic analysis to evaluate chromosome representation and identify potential chromosomal abnormalities.
4
Expert Interpretation
Certified genetic professionals analyze the sequencing data and calculate the likelihood of chromosomal conditions, providing comprehensive clinical interpretation.
5
Results & Genetic Counseling
Results are delivered within 7–14 working days of sample collection, along with a comprehensive report and genetic counseling support to help you understand the findings.

From Sample Collection to Results & Counseling: 7–14 working days (including expert interpretation and genetic counseling support).

Why Choose Progenics for NIPS

Safety, accuracy, and compassionate care throughout your NIPS journey.

Progenics Difference

Unmatched NIPS Accuracy

We utilize industry-leading sequencing technology to deliver exceptional precision. Our validated clinical workflows ensure the lowest false-positive rates, providing you with definitive answers and true clarity during your pregnancy journey.

99.9%
Accuracy Rate

5,000+ NIPS Tests

Extensive experience with diverse pregnancies. Proven accuracy and consistency. Trusted by OB providers across India.

Expert Genetic Counselors

Board-certified multi-lingual specialists in prenatal genetics. Available to discuss results, answer concerns, and provide support at every step.

Advanced Technology

Latest sequencing platforms with highest sensitivity. Rigorous quality control. Proven accuracy matching or exceeding published standards.

Comprehensive Counseling

Pre-test discussion of options. Post-test explanation of results. Ongoing support for any pregnancy outcome.

Accessibility

Multiple collection centers. Fast results. Email access to reports. Genetic counselor support online/offline.

Stories from Families Who Chose NIPS

"At 39, I was anxious about Down syndrome risk. NIPS at 11 weeks showed very low risk. I could finally relax and enjoy my pregnancy. My baby was born healthy."
Mounika, Age 39
Age-related anxiety resolved + Healthy pregnancy
"My sister's child has Down syndrome. I was terrified. NIPS showed low chromosomal risk. The reassurance was life-changing. My daughter is healthy."
Deepa, With Family History
Family history concerns addressed + Confidence restored
"Abnormal ultrasound at 12 weeks devastated us. NIPS a week later was very low risk. The elevated measurement was a false alarm. My baby is healthy."
Radhika, Abnormal Screening
Abnormal screening clarified + Peace of mind

Frequently Asked Questions About NIPS

Completely safe. NIPS requires only a simple blood draw. No risk to you or the baby. No medication, no procedures, no miscarriage risk. It's one of the safest genetic tests available.
NIPS can be performed as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy. That's when there's enough fetal DNA in maternal blood for accurate testing.
99% detection rate for Down syndrome. For Edward syndrome: 97-98%. For Patau syndrome: 95%. These are among the highest detection rates of any genetic test, including invasive testing.
Typically 7-14 working days from sample collection. Results include comprehensive written report and genetic counselor consultation explaining findings and implications.
Abnormal NIPS suggests increased risk but doesn't confirm diagnosis. Confirmatory testing (detailed ultrasound or invasive testing) is recommended. Genetic counseling helps you understand results and options.
Absolutely. Partners often have questions and concerns. We include partners in genetic counseling so both parents understand results and implications together.
Contact Progenics directly or ask your OBG to order NIPS. We handle all coordination sample collection, testing, results delivery, and counseling. Simple scheduling process.

Ready to Schedule Your NIPS?

If you're uncertain whether NIPS is right for you or still considering options, our genetic counselors are here to support you with compassion and expertise.