FETAL DNA (NIPT) TEST IN GEBZE

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 provides early, reliable, and completely safe information about your baby’s genetic health. The test analyzes small fragments of fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s blood to detect potential chromosomal abnormalities with remarkable precision.

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In Gebze, the NIPT test is available at modern hospitals, specialized gynecology clinics, and certified genetic laboratories equipped with advanced sequencing technology. Unlike invasive diagnostic procedures, NIPT only requires a simple blood sample from the mother’s arm — no risk, no pain, and no harm to mother or baby.

How Does the NIPT Test Work?

During pregnancy, fragments of the baby’s DNA, known as cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA), pass through the placenta into the mother’s bloodstream. These DNA fragments can be analyzed from the 10th week of pregnancy onward to evaluate the baby’s chromosomes.

In Gebze’s accredited laboratories, the test is performed using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology — one of the most reliable and precise genetic analysis tools available today. This technique identifies extra or missing chromosomes that may indicate certain genetic conditions.

Results are typically available within 7–10 days, and some laboratories in Gebze offer express results in as few as 3–5 days.

What Conditions Can NIPT Detect?

Major Chromosomal Abnormalities

NIPT screens for the most common chromosomal disorders with outstanding accuracy:

Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21): Caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21; detection rate over 99%.
Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18): Caused by an extra chromosome 18; detection accuracy about 97%.
Patau Syndrome (Trisomy 13): Caused by an extra chromosome 13; detection accuracy above 90%.

Sex Chromosome Abnormalities

The test can also detect variations in sex chromosomes, including:

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

Extended Genetic Panels

Some advanced laboratories in Gebze offer expanded NIPT panels that detect additional rare conditions such as microdeletions and microduplications, including DiGeorge, Prader-Willi, and Angelman syndromes. Your doctor can advise whether an extended panel is appropriate for your case.

When Should the NIPT Test Be Performed?

The best time to perform the NIPT test is after the 10th week of pregnancy, when fetal DNA levels in the mother’s blood are high enough for accurate analysis. The test remains safe and reliable throughout pregnancy, including during the second and third trimesters.

Who Should Consider NIPT?

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

Women aged 35 or older
Pregnancies with abnormal first-trimester screening results
IVF pregnancies or those achieved through assisted reproductive techniques
Expectant mothers with ultrasound findings suggesting genetic abnormalities
Families with a history of chromosomal disorders
Parents wishing to avoid invasive diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis
Carriers of balanced chromosomal rearrangements

Advantages of the NIPT Test

Highly Accurate: Over 99% accuracy for Down syndrome and other major trisomies.
Completely Safe: Non-invasive; requires only a maternal blood sample.
Early Detection: Can be performed from the 10th week of pregnancy.
Gender Determination: Accurately identifies baby’s gender if requested.
Low False Positive Rate: Reduces unnecessary invasive procedures.
Fast and Convenient: Simple blood draw, no fasting, and results in a few days.

Limitations of the NIPT Test

While NIPT is highly precise, it is a screening rather than a diagnostic test.

A positive (high-risk) result indicates increased risk but does not confirm a diagnosis. Diagnostic tests such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) are required for confirmation.
NIPT does not detect all genetic conditions, such as single-gene disorders or neural tube defects.
Occasionally, the test may not yield results if the fetal DNA fraction in the blood is too low. This situation may occur in early pregnancies or in women with higher body mass index (BMI). Retesting after 1–2 weeks typically resolves the issue.
It can be performed for twin pregnancies, though accuracy is slightly reduced compared to single pregnancies.

How Is the NIPT Test Performed?

Before the Test:
Your doctor or genetic counselor will explain what the test screens for and how to interpret the results. Many clinics in Gebze offer pre-test counseling to ensure full understanding.

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

After the Test:
The sample is sent to a certified laboratory for genetic sequencing. Results are usually ready within 7–10 business days, depending on the laboratory’s capacity.

Understanding the Results

Low-Risk (Negative):
Indicates a low likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities. Routine prenatal care continues.

High-Risk (Positive):
Suggests an increased chance of a genetic condition. Diagnostic confirmation is necessary through amniocentesis or CVS.

Inconclusive:
Occurs when fetal DNA levels are too low for reliable testing. A repeat test after 1–2 weeks usually provides conclusive results.

NIPT Test Cost in Gebze

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

Prices vary depending on the laboratory, analysis type, and turnaround time. Some laboratories offer express testing for an additional fee.

Insurance Coverage:
NIPT is not covered by Turkey’s Social Security Institution (SGK), though some private insurance policies may reimburse part of the cost depending on their terms.

Where to Get the NIPT Test in Gebze

The NIPT test is available at:

Private hospitals and obstetrics clinics
Specialized genetic laboratories
University hospitals with perinatology departments

Facilities in Gebze follow international safety and accuracy standards and employ experienced genetic specialists for reliable results.

Comparison with Other Prenatal Tests

Traditional Double and Triple Tests:
These older screening tests are still used but have lower accuracy and higher false-positive rates than NIPT.

Ultrasound (Nuchal Translucency):
Ultrasound is essential for structural and anatomical evaluation of the baby. NIPT complements ultrasound by providing genetic information, not replacing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is NIPT mandatory?
No, it is optional and depends on your preference.

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

Does NIPT replace amniocentesis?
No, it’s a screening test. Diagnostic testing is needed for confirmation.

Is fasting required before the test?
No fasting or special preparation is needed.

Can twins be tested?
Yes, though accuracy may be slightly lower than in single pregnancies.

How long do results take?
Typically 7–10 days; express options may return results in 3–5 days.

Final Thoughts

The Fetal DNA (NIPT) Test in Gebze offers expectant parents peace of mind through early, safe, and accurate genetic screening. By using advanced technology and a simple, non-invasive blood test, families can receive essential information about their baby’s health without any risk to mother or child.

Gebze’s hospitals and clinics provide access to international-standard laboratories and experienced obstetric specialists, making NIPT an integral part of prenatal care.

For the best outcomes, NIPT should be combined with regular ultrasounds, healthy pregnancy monitoring, and professional medical guidance.