NIPT results explained
Your NIPT report gives a lower-chance or higher-chance result for each condition screened, plus your baby’s sex if you asked for it. Results usually arrive about 5 working days after your sample is received.
- From 10 weeks
- No risk to baby
- Results in about 5 working days
- No GP referral
Lower-chance result
This is the result most people receive. It means it’s very unlikely your baby has the conditions screened for. No test can rule them out completely.
Higher-chance result
This means there’s an increased chance your baby has the condition. It isn’t a diagnosis. We’ll explain your result and next steps, and your NHS maternity team can arrange a diagnostic test (CVS or amniocentesis).
No result
Occasionally a sample doesn’t contain enough of your baby’s DNA to give a result. This is more common early in pregnancy or with a higher BMI. A repeat sample is usually advised.
Baby’s sex
If you chose to find out, your report will show whether your baby is a boy or a girl.
What your report looks like
Example only| Screened for 2 | Result 3 |
|---|---|
| Trisomy 21Down’s syndrome | Lower chance |
| Trisomy 18Edwards’ syndrome | Lower chance |
| Trisomy 13Patau’s syndrome | Lower chance |
| Sex chromosomesTurner, Klinefelter, XYY, Triple X | Lower chance |
| Baby’s sexOnly if requested | Shown here 4 |
- Fetal fraction: how much of the DNA in your sample comes from the pregnancy. If it’s too low, the test can’t give a result and a second sample is usually taken.
- Screened for: the conditions your chosen NIPT covers.
- Lower or higher chance: most results are lower chance. A higher-chance result isn’t a diagnosis. We’ll explain it and your next steps. Results explained.
- Baby’s sex: only included if you ask, and can be sent separately for a gender reveal.
Illustration only. Your actual report layout may differ.
More guides
Book your NIPT
From £295. A 15-minute visit at our Croydon clinic, with no GP referral.