FETAL DNA TEST (NIPT) BROCHURE

The Safest Genetic Screening Test for Your Baby’s Health

The Fetal DNA Test (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test – NIPT) is a safe test with a high accuracy rate that determines the risk of genetic disorders such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).

1. What is a Fetal DNA Test?

• It is a blood-based screening test that assesses the genetic health of the baby and can be performed from the 10th week of pregnancy.
• Cell-free DNA samples in maternal blood are evaluated through genetic analysis.
• The test does not provide a definitive diagnosis, but its accuracy rate can reach up to 99%.

2. What Conditions Can Fetal DNA Testing Detect?

• Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): Characterized by intellectual developmental delay and physical differences.
• Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18): Associated with severe developmental problems.
• Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): Includes heart and brain anomalies.
• Sex Chromosome Abnormalities: Syndromes such as Turner and Klinefelter.
• Microdeletion/Microduplication: Small structural abnormalities in chromosomes.

3. Who Should Take the Fetal DNA Test?

• Pregnant women aged 35 and above
• Those identified as high-risk in screening tests
• Those with a family history of genetic disorders
• Those who experienced genetic problems in previous pregnancies
• Those at risk but wishing to avoid amniocentesis

4. How is the Fetal DNA Test Performed?

• 10–15 ml of blood is taken from the expectant mother.
• The sample is sent to specialized genetic laboratories.
• Results are available within 7–10 days.

Advantages of the Test

• Up to 99% accuracy rate
• Non-invasive, no surgical procedure required
• No harm to mother or baby
• Baby’s gender can also be determined

5. Comparison with Other Genetic Tests

6. Advantages and Disadvantages of the Test

Advantages

• Painless and risk-free
• High accuracy
• Applicable from the 10th week

Disadvantages

• Does not provide a definitive diagnosis
• Can be costly
• False positives/negatives are rare but possible

7. Frequently Asked Questions

• When is it performed? From the 10th week of pregnancy
• Is fasting required? No
• When are the results available? 7–10 days
• If high risk is detected? Diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis are recommended