To help you feel at ease about prenatal testing NIPT
When you find out you’re pregnant, some people may have various anxieties and worries about whether their baby is growing healthily. In particular, there has been an increase in people wanting to know in advance about chromosomal abnormalities, and one test that meets this need is “NIPT (New Prenatal Testing).”
This page provides an easy-to-understand introduction to NIPT from a pediatrician’s perspective. We will explain in detail the purpose and content of the test, its costs, and the highly accurate testing system we use.
What is NIPT?
NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a blood test that can be taken from the 10th week of pregnancy.
By analyzing the fetal DNA contained in the mother’s blood, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the baby can be determined.Unlike conventional prenatal testing, this test only requires a blood sample, making it safe for both the mother and the fetus.
The NIPT performed at our hospital is in partnership with GENDIA, a Belgian company with the world’s highest standards, and can detect genetic disorders such as Down syndrome with an accuracy of 99.9%.
Features and benefits of NIPT
The main features of the NIPT performed at our hospital are as follows:
- Testing is available from the 10th week of pregnancy
- Only a maternal blood sample is taken, with no risk to the fetus
- Highly accurate detection of Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)
- Testing by GENDIA (Belgium), a world-class company, with 99.9% accuracy
- Testing for sex chromosome abnormalities and microdeletion syndromes is also available upon request
This is a screening test and not a definitive diagnosis, but by identifying the risk early, it helps to prepare subsequent options and support systems.
About inspection costs
We offer the following three courses depending on the type of test you require:
-
Course A: 196,000(JPY)
･Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)
･Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18)
･Down syndrome (trisomy 21) -
Course B: 231,000(JPY)
・All items in Course A
・Sex chromosome abnormalities such as Klinefelter syndrome -
C course: 264,000(JPY)
・Full chromosome testing (trisomies 1-22)
・Sex chromosome abnormalities (including Klinefelter syndrome and gender determination)
・Microdeletion syndromes (DiGeorge syndrome, etc.)
Both courses are conducted after thorough genetic counseling is provided in advance. During the counseling, we will carefully explain what the test can and cannot tell you, how to interpret the test results, and what to do next.
About the inspection process
The process for receiving NIPT is as follows:
- Booking and Medical Interview
- Genetic Counseling (Test Explanation and Consent)
- Blood Draw (One Time Only)
- Analysis at Overseas Laboratory (Approximately 10-14 Days)
- Result Report and Follow-up
The doctor will explain the test results directly to you and, if necessary, guide you on the next steps (such as a definitive diagnosis). If you have any concerns, please feel free to consult us.
For those who are unsure whether to take the test
NIPT is not a necessary test for all pregnant women. Some want to use it as information to consider the future of their baby, while others may decide that it is not necessary.
The important thing is to respect the family’s thoughts and values and make a choice that they are satisfied with. Our clinic will never force you to make a purchase, so it is fine if you just come and listen to what we have to say.
Summary: To welcome your baby with peace of mind
NIPT is a test that can detect chromosomal abnormalities in the unborn baby with high accuracy and safety. Although technology has advanced, each family will still have their own thoughts about how to interpret the results.
We not only value the accuracy of our tests, but also the “mental care” of pregnant women and their families. Please feel free to contact us with any concerns you may have.
If you have any concerns, please come to our clinic. All of our staff will help you welcome your baby with peace of mind.