NIPT vs the NHS combined test
The NHS offers every pregnant woman the combined test, which uses a scan and a blood test at 11 to 14 weeks to estimate the chance of Down’s, Edwards’ and Patau’s syndromes. NIPT is a different, more accurate screening test.
- From 10 weeks
- No risk to baby
- Results in about 5 working days
- No GP referral
The NHS combined test
The combined test is offered between 11 weeks 2 days and 14 weeks 1 day, alongside your dating scan. It gives a chance result, such as 1 in 1,000.
When the NHS offers NIPT
On the NHS, NIPT is offered as a second step if your combined or quadruple test gives a higher-chance result, between 1 in 2 and 1 in 150. It isn’t routinely offered as a first test.
Why people choose private NIPT
Privately, you can have NIPT as your first screening test from 10 weeks. It detects more pregnancies affected by Down’s syndrome than the combined test, with fewer false alarms.
Do I still need my NHS appointments?
Yes. Keep all your NHS appointments, including your 12 and 20 week scans. The 20 week scan checks for physical conditions that NIPT can’t screen for.
More guides
Book your NIPT
From £295. A 15-minute visit at our Croydon clinic, with no GP referral.