Non-invasive prenatal testing

Mater Pathology is proud to offer perceptTM Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) by Victorian Clinical Genetics Services (VCGS).

What is NIPT?

An advanced screening test that uses cell-free fetal-DNA (cfDNA) found in the maternal blood to identify the most common chromosome conditions found in newborns. cfDNA is released from the placenta into the maternal blood stream as part of the growth and development of the baby.

Screening is safe and poses no threat to the pregnancy because it uses a simple blood sample collected from the mother. NIPT is the most accurate prenatal screening test for Down Syndrome.

What does NIPT screen for?

perceptTM NIPT includes an assessment of all 24 chromosomes (1-22 + X and Y). This makes perceptTM the most comprehensive NIPT currently available in Australia.

Conditions screened include:

  • Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
  • Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18)
  • Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)
  • Rare trisomies
  • Turner syndrome (monosomy X)
  • Klinefelter syndrome (XXY)
  • Triple X (XXX)
  • XYY

Additionally, the gender of the baby is generally included in reports however you can opt to not have this information provided through discussions with your doctor.

Free pre-test and post-test genetic counselling is also available through VCGS by telephone.

When can I be tested for NIPT?

NIPT is available from 10 weeks of pregnancy, but the ideal time is between 11-16 weeks. This ensures there is enough time for any follow up testing that may be required. You should discuss with your doctor or genetic counsellor before opting for NIPT later in pregnancy.

How much does NIPT cost and where can it be collected?

This NIPT offering costs $449 and can be collected at any Mater Pathology collection centre. Requests for NIPT written on any pathology request form will be accepted by Mater Pathology and sent to VCGS.

VCGS is a specialist laboratory and clinical genetics service with over 40 years' experience in genetics during pregnancy. If you would like to discuss this test further please contact VCGS on 03 9936 6402, visit VCGS NIPT for more information or peruse our NIPT flyer for patients.