FETAL DNA (NIPT) TEST IN ANTALYA

Safe, Accurate, and Non-Invasive Prenatal Genetic Screening

What Is the NIPT Test?

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) — also known as the Fetal DNA test or cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) test — is an advanced prenatal screening method that allows expectant mothers to learn about their baby’s genetic health early in pregnancy through a simple blood test. The NIPT test analyzes tiny fragments of the baby’s DNA circulating in the mother’s blood to detect chromosomal abnormalities with exceptional accuracy and without any risk to the baby.

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In Antalya, NIPT testing is available at private hospitals, IVF centers, and accredited genetic laboratories equipped with the latest sequencing technology. Because it only requires a blood sample from the mother’s arm, the procedure is completely safe, eliminating the need for invasive methods such as amniocentesis.

How Does the NIPT Test Work?

During pregnancy, fragments of your baby’s DNA, known as cell-free fetal DNA, circulate in your bloodstream. Starting from the 10th week of pregnancy, these DNA fragments can be analyzed using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to determine whether your baby has extra or missing chromosomes that may cause genetic disorders.

The test involves a simple blood draw and takes just a few minutes. Samples are analyzed in specialized genetic laboratories in Antalya or their partner facilities, and results are typically available within 7–10 days. Some centers offer express testing options with results in 3–5 days.

What Conditions Can NIPT Detect?

Major Chromosomal Abnormalities

NIPT detects the most common chromosomal abnormalities with very high accuracy:

Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): Extra chromosome 21; detection accuracy over 99%.
Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18): Extra chromosome 18; detection accuracy around 97%.
Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): Extra chromosome 13; detection accuracy above 90%.

Sex Chromosome Abnormalities

The test can also detect abnormalities related to sex chromosomes, including:

Turner Syndrome (45,X)
Klinefelter Syndrome (47,XXY)
Triple X Syndrome (47,XXX)
Jacobs Syndrome (47,XYY)

Extended Genetic Panels

Many advanced laboratories in Antalya offer expanded NIPT panels that detect additional rare genetic conditions such as DiGeorge, Prader-Willi, and Angelman syndromes. Your doctor can advise whether extended screening is appropriate based on your family history and medical background.

When Should the NIPT Test Be Performed?

The NIPT test is ideally performed from the 10th week of pregnancy onward, when there is enough fetal DNA in the mother’s blood for accurate analysis. The test can also be safely performed later in pregnancy without any loss of accuracy.

Who Should Consider NIPT?

Although suitable for all pregnant women, NIPT is especially recommended for those who:

Are 35 years or older
Have abnormal first-trimester screening results
Conceived through IVF or assisted reproduction
Have a family history of chromosomal disorders
Have ultrasound findings suggesting genetic risks
Wish to avoid invasive diagnostic procedures
Are carriers of balanced chromosomal rearrangements

Advantages of the NIPT Test

Extremely Accurate: Over 99% accuracy for Down syndrome and other trisomies.
Completely Safe: Requires only a maternal blood sample; no risk to mother or baby.
Early Detection: Can be done from as early as the 10th week.
Determines Gender: If requested, the baby’s gender can be accurately identified.
Fewer False Positives: Reduces unnecessary invasive testing.
Fast and Simple: Quick, painless, and requires no fasting or special preparation.

Limitations of the NIPT Test

While NIPT is a highly accurate screening tool, it is not a diagnostic test:

A positive (high-risk) result suggests an increased likelihood of a genetic abnormality but does not confirm it. Diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) are required for confirmation.
NIPT cannot detect all genetic or structural disorders (e.g., single-gene mutations or neural tube defects).
In rare cases, the test may fail to produce results due to low fetal DNA levels. This can occur in early pregnancies or in women with higher body mass index (BMI). Retesting after 1–2 weeks usually provides results.
The accuracy may be slightly lower for twin pregnancies than for single pregnancies.

How Is the NIPT Test Performed?

Before the Test:
Your doctor or genetic counselor will explain what the test screens for and what the results mean. Pre-test counseling is often available at major hospitals and clinics in Antalya.

During the Test:
A small blood sample is taken from your arm. The procedure is quick, painless, and requires no fasting or special preparation.

After the Test:
The blood sample is sent to an accredited genetic laboratory for analysis. Results are usually available within 7–10 business days. Your doctor will review and interpret the results with you.

Understanding the Results

Low-Risk (Negative):
Indicates a low likelihood of the screened chromosomal abnormalities. No further testing is typically required.

High-Risk (Positive):
Indicates an increased probability of a chromosomal condition. Diagnostic testing is advised for confirmation.

Inconclusive Result:
In some cases, the test may be inconclusive due to low fetal DNA levels. A repeat test is usually recommended after one to two weeks.

NIPT Test Cost in Antalya

Basic NIPT tests: 12,500 – 14,000 TL
Extended panels: 15,000 – 18,000 TL

Costs may vary based on the testing center, panel type, and turnaround time. Some laboratories offer faster results for an additional fee.

Insurance Coverage:
The NIPT test is not covered by Turkey’s Social Security Institution (SGK), but some private insurance policies may cover a portion of the cost.

Where to Get the NIPT Test in Antalya

NIPT testing is widely available at:

Private hospitals and women’s health centers
IVF and fertility clinics
Accredited genetic laboratories working with Antalya’s major medical facilities

These centers follow international standards, ensuring precision and reliability in testing and analysis.

Comparison with Other Prenatal Tests

Traditional Double and Triple Tests:
These older tests are less accurate and have higher false-positive rates than NIPT.

Ultrasound (Nuchal Translucency Measurement):
Ultrasound remains essential for evaluating fetal anatomy. NIPT complements ultrasound findings, providing genetic data but not replacing sonographic evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the NIPT test mandatory?
No, it is optional and depends on your preferences and medical situation.

Can NIPT determine the baby’s gender?
Yes, it can accurately determine gender from the 10th week onward.

Does NIPT replace amniocentesis?
No, NIPT is a screening test; diagnostic confirmation is needed for positive results.

Is fasting required?
No, fasting or special preparation is not necessary.

Can twins be tested?
Yes, though accuracy is slightly lower than for single pregnancies.

How long do results take?
Typically within 7–10 days; some labs in Antalya offer express results in 3–5 days.

Final Thoughts

The Fetal DNA (NIPT) Test in Antalya offers expectant parents a safe, accurate, and early opportunity to assess their baby’s genetic health. With Antalya’s advanced medical infrastructure and certified genetic laboratories, families can access world-class prenatal screening close to home.

NIPT is completely safe, reliable, and provides valuable insights into your baby’s health. Combined with regular ultrasound monitoring and your doctor’s guidance, it forms an essential part of modern prenatal care.