Introduction
Healthcare providers prescribe NIPT tests, to pregnant women to evaluate the risk of certain genetic conditions in the fetus. The test assesses genetic diseases and predispositions during the fetal development stage.
NIPT is a safe method of screening genetic conditions during the prenatal stage. It detects abnormalities in the DNA, allowing the parents and healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about prenatal care.
In this blog, you will understand the concept of the NIPT test, its significance, and its cost –continue reading.
About NIPT Test
NIPT stands for Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing. It is a screening method suggested during pregnancy. The test anticipates the risk of certain genetic disorders in the developing fetus.
The test involves the analyses of fragments of fetal DNA, which circulate in the mother’s blood. The collection of the mother’s blood sample will obtain the fetus’s DNA.
What Is The Purpose Of The NIPT Test?
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) tests check for abnormalities in the chromosomes. The fetal DNA assessment reveals common types of chromosomal deformities, such as Edwards syndrome, Down syndrome, and Patau syndrome.
NIPT also unravels other issues due to DNA malformation, including Klinefelter syndrome, Turner syndrome, and others.
What Is the Procedure For The NIPT Test?
To perform this test, healthcare professionals recommend a blood sample to the expectant mother. The best time to collect the blood sample is after the 10th week of pregnancy.
The mother’s blood provides the DNA of the fetus. The collected sample contains a combination of mother’s and fetal DNA. An application of advanced technology analysis differentiates fetal DNA fragments from the mother’s DNA fragments.
How Much Does The NIPT Test Cost In India?
Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing or NIPT test cost in India can vary according to the region. How much NIPT test costs also depends on the specific provider. In general, the average cost of an NIPT test typically ranges between INR 15,000 to INR 25,000.
NIPT test cost in Chennai also reveals the same figure, which is from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000. However, the costs keep changing, as the prices differ based on regions on how much NIPT test cost and facilities.
To know what NIPT test cost is is and get up-to-date pricing, it is advisable to contact local medical diagnostic laboratories. Or reach out to hospitals in your area to find out about the NIPT costs.
Even if you search NIPT test cost near me on search engines, you will get inaccurate results. Therefore, you should contact your healthcare provider to understand which test is appropriate and its associated costs.
Insurance Coverage For NIPT Test
Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) costs will go down significantly with health insurance coverage. But again, the extent of coverage may vary depending on the specific insurance policy and provider.
In general, NIPT test cost without insurance can range between INR 15,000 to INR 25,000. However, NIPT test cost with insurance will be less compared.
It is necessary to review your health insurance policy to check if it provides coverage for prenatal tests, including NIPT. Some policies may include coverage for diagnostic tests during pregnancy.
If you have doubts, it is advisable to contact your insurance provider. You must discuss it with your insurance company to confirm whether they provide NIPT coverage.
You can only avail yourself of coverage if the insurance plan covers NIPT with other conditions. Inquire about any pre-authorization requirements or specific conditions essential for claiming coverage benefits.
Advantages Of NIPT Testing
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- Non-invasive: NIPT test is a non-invasive type of genetic testing, which is safer compared to invasive techniques. The risk to the fetus is very low in the NIPT test, which makes it preferable.
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- Early Detection: The expectant mother can take the NIPT test after 10 weeks (about 2 and a half months) of pregnancy. If the test reveals any deformity, healthcare professionals and the mother can make a timely decision.
Association Of NIPT Testing And Genetic Testing
Genetic testing and Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) are closely related. NIPT is one of the types of genetic testing that focuses on identifying genetic conditions during the prenatal stage. Genetic testing is a broader term that encompasses a range of different tests.
NIPT is a specialized type of genetic testing. Genetic testing identifies genetic changes, mutations, or chromosomal abnormalities in DNA. The test is useful for diagnostic evaluation, disease prediction, and screening purposes across different stages of life.
NIFT is a type of genetic testing that is specifically helpful during pregnancy to detect specific chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. The test involves collecting a sample of the mother’s blood and using it to get fetal DNA.
NIPT is a non-invasive method because it does not involve invasive procedures. It is mostly safe and obtains accurate results. Based on this test, healthcare professionals, individuals and their families can make critical decisions.
Method Of Genetic Testing And NIPT Testing
Genetic testing covers a wide range of tests and the NIPT test is one of them. Genetic testing processes the DNA and analyses it to unravel the genetic abnormalities. Various sources such as blood, tissue, or saliva, provide valuable genetic information.
For testing fetal DNA, experts analyze cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA), which is present in the mother’s blood sample. Fetal DNA assessment provides valuable insights about genetic makeup and the predisposition to certain genetic conditions.
Genetic testing covers a wider area, while NIPT testing obtains specific information. It helps in critical decision-making and planning treatment strategies.
Besides the NIPT test, genetic testing also involves other types of prenatal tests for anticipating the risk of genetic disorders. These tests include amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS). Both these are invasive types of genetic testing.
Conclusion
Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) is a specialized form of genetic testing that obtains valuable insights about fetal genetic makeup without posing a significant risk. Expectant parents can opt for this advanced screening method of prenatal care.
NIPT allows early detection and better decision-making in the management of potential genetic conditions. NIPT is strongly associated with genetic testing. Both help in acknowledging its role and limitations within the spectrum of prenatal genetic screening and diagnostics.
