Everything you need to know about your NIPT test report
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Time to read 10 min
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NIPT or noninvasive prenatal test is a medical procedure where a pregnant woman’s blood is taken to detect congenital abnormalities in the fetus’s DNA. This test helps to examine genetic conditions like Down Syndrome, Edward syndrome, Patau Syndrome etc. This test is usually done at the initial 10 weeks of the pregnancy.
Already we have mentioned NIPT stands for non-invasive prenatal testing. This screening test is done during pregnancy to detect any chromosomal disorder in the fetus. In some countries this test is used to determine the sex of the fetus.
However, sex determination is strictly prohibited in India under PCPNDT act 1994. This law bans sex determination before or after conceiving and prohibits the diagnostic techniques for gender selection. Overall, this test allows healthcare providers a glimpse into the fetus’s genetic makeup. However, NIPT can’t screen for all chromosomal or genetic conditions.
The main purpose of the NIPT test is to detect some chromosomal conditions or birth disorders that include;
Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
Trisomy 18
Trisomy 13
Disorders affecting sex chromosomes (X and Y)
An extra chromosome can cause Down Syndrome, trisomy 18 and trisomy 13. NIPT helps to predict the differences in the usual number of sex chromosomes. The most common chromosome conditions are Triple X syndrome, Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, and XYY syndrome. Not all NIPT panels evaluate for the same conditions. Hence, you must discuss with your healthcare provider before proceeding for the test.
An NIPT testing report is the result of a prenatal screening test that helps to analyze small fragments of fetal DNA circulating in throughout the mother’s blood drawn. This report shows whether the baby is at low risk result or presents a high risk result for certain chromosomal abnormalities, indicating the need for genetic counseling . NIPT test report is important because it provides the positive predictive value for certain conditions and helps minimize false positive results, while being aware of the potential for false negative results .
This test report provides a safe and early screening option that detects the chromosomal conditions within only 10 weeks of pregnancy.
This report helps parents and doctors make informed decisions about further diagnostic tests if required.
This test report reduces the requirement for invasive procedures like amniocentesis that carries a small risk of miscarriage.
An NIPT report provides results about the risk of the fetus having certain chromosomal abnormalities. It is a screening test result that tells whether the baby is likely at low risk or high risk of specific conditions.
Mother’s name, age, gestational age, date of sample collection.
Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
Sometimes, sex chromosome abnormalities (such as Turner syndrome).
Condition / Syndrome |
Chromosome Involved |
What It Means |
Reported As |
|---|---|---|---|
Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) |
Extra copy of chromosome 21 |
Causes intellectual disability, some health issues |
Low risk / High risk |
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) |
Extra copy of chromosome 18 |
Severe developmental problems, often life-limiting |
Low risk / High risk |
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) |
Extra copy of chromosome 13 |
Severe intellectual & physical abnormalities |
Low risk / High risk |
Sex chromosome abnormalities (optional, if selected) |
X and Y chromosomes |
Conditions such as Turner syndrome (XO), Klinefelter syndrome (XXY), Triple X, XYY |
Low risk / High risk |
Microdeletions (extended panel, optional) |
Small missing DNA segments |
Can cause rare genetic syndromes (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome 22q11.2) |
Detected / Not detected |
Reported as Low Risk or High Risk.
Some labs provide a risk score or z-score (how far from normal the result is).
Sex of the unborn baby, which can be relevant for the baby's health (optional, only if requested and legally allowed).
Explanation of what the results mean and next steps.
Name: Mrs. A
Age: 32 years
Gestational Age: 12 weeks
Test Date: 15 Sept 2025
|
Condition |
Result |
Interpretation |
| Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) |
Low Risk |
No extra chromosome 21 detected |
| Trisomy 18 (Edwards) |
Low Risk |
No extra chromosome 18 detected |
|
Trisomy 13 (Patau) |
Low Risk |
No extra chromosome 13 detected |
|
Sex Chromosomes |
XY |
Male fetus |
The fetus is at low risk for the tested chromosomal abnormalities. No follow-up invasive testing is required unless clinically indicated, but in some cases, further pregnancy management may be necessary.
|
Condition |
Result |
Interpretation |
| Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) |
High Risk |
Suggestive of an extra chromosome 21 |
| Trisomy 18 |
Low Risk |
— |
| Trisomy 13 |
Low Risk |
— |
The fetus shows a high risk for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), indicating a high risk result that needs further evaluation. Confirmatory testing for specific chromosomal abnormalities, such as amniotic fluid amniocentesis or CVS, is recommended for a definitive diagnosis, especially after an accurate screening test like NIPT.
Here is a sample breakdown of an NIPT report, showcasing the advanced technology used, including comparisons with traditional serum screening.
Type of test: NIPT / cfDNA screening
Method: Next-generation sequencing of cell-free fetal DNA
|
Condition |
Result |
Risk Status |
| Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) |
Low Risk |
< 1 in 10,000 |
| Trisomy 18 (Edwards) |
Low Risk |
< 1 in 10,000 |
| Trisomy 13 (Patau) |
Low Risk |
< 1 in 10,000 |
| Sex Chromosome Analysis |
Normal XX |
Female fetus |
This result indicates a low risk for the fetus. These findings are consistent with a normal chromosomal pattern.
If low risk → No further testing required unless clinical signs are suggested. .
If high risk → Confirm with invasive diagnostic tests (amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling).
Lab Name & Address
Authorized Signatory (Doctor/Genetic Counselor)
Most reports use tables to display conditions and results.
Color coding is sometimes used.
Patient information (name, date of birth).
Test details (specimen ID, date of collection).
Breakdown of screened conditions (Trisomy 21, 18, 13, sex chromosome aneuploidies).
Fetal sex determination (if requested and allowed legally).
Interpretation and disclaimers.
Results are shown as Low Risk or High Risk.
Some labs may also show a risk score or probability (e.g., less than 1 in 10,000).
Most reports include:
Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
Sometimes sex chromosome conditions (e.g., Turner syndrome).
Trisomy 21: Low Risk
Trisomy 18: Low Risk
Trisomy 13: Low Risk
Interpretation: The fetus is very unlikely to have these chromosomal disorders.
Trisomy 21: High Risk
Trisomy 18: Low Risk
Trisomy 13: Low Risk
Interpretation: The fetus has a higher chance of having Down syndrome. A confirmatory test like amniocentesis is recommended.
If requested and legally allowed, the report may mention XX (female) or XY (male). This is not allowed in India under the PNPDC act.
The NIPT test report usually depends on the lab, location, and type of panel chosen.
Standard timeframe: 7 to 10 working days after the blood sample reaches the lab.
Some labs (especially in metro cities): 5 to 7 working days.
Comprehensive panels (covering rare genetic conditions or microdeletions) for singleton pregnancies may take 10–14 working days.
Logistics – If the blood sample is sent abroad (many Indian labs send to Singapore/US/UK), it may take longer.
Type of test – Basic aneuploidy panels are quicker than extended panels.
Quality of sample – If the fetal DNA fraction is low, repeat sampling may delay the results.
Lab workload & technology – High-end NGS (next-generation sequencing) labs often deliver faster.
NIPT test is widely available across the major Indian cities and diagnostic centers. This test is offered by almost all domestic labs. This test can be accessed through hospitals, IVF centers, and some genetic testing companies.
Some of the labs that offer NIPT in India are; Lifecell Diagnostics, MyDiagnostics, Strand Life Sciences, MedGenome Labs, SRL diagnostics, Apollo diagnostics etc.
The NIPT report format can vary slightly by lab, but is typically performed with the consistent core elements are;
Patient details & sample ID
Test methodology (usually NGS – Next Generation Sequencing)
Fetal fraction (%)
Risk assessment for common aneuploidies (e.g., Trisomy 21, 18, 13)
Sex chromosome analysis (if opted)
Additional conditions (in extended panels: microdeletions, rare aneuploidies)
Final interpretation: “Low risk” / “High risk”
In India, some reports may use terms like “Screen Negative” / “Screen Positive” instead of “Low/High Risk.”
In India, the average NIPT cost range is within INR 10,000 to INR 15,000. However, we recommend you to test from MyDiagnostics to get the best service. Our healthcare experts assist you with the best and ensure to provide the accurate reports. At MyDiagnostics, the NIPT test costs INR 12,500.
Presently, most of the health insurance company in India doesn’t cover NIPT, as it is classified as a screening test instead of a diagnostic test. However, some high-end maternity packages include partial coverage or bundled discounts.
NT or Nuchal Translucency scan is an ultrasound test performed between 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy. This test measures the fluid filled space at the back of the fetus’s neck. An increased thickness indicates a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities, congenital heart defects and other syndrome.
NT scan involves with an image based screening that shows structural markers and early fetal development. NIPT on the other hand is a blood test that analyze cell-free fetal DNA in the mother’s blood, screening genetic risk with higher accuracy. NT scan looks at physical signs where NIPT looks at generic material.
NT measurement in millimeters
Gestational age & fetal growth parameters
Nasal bone presence/absence
Structural anomalies (if visible)
Overall risk estimate when combined with maternal age + blood markers
Fetal fraction (%)
Risk assessment for trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), trisomy 18, trisomy 13
Optional: sex chromosome abnormalities, microdeletions, other rare conditions
Result given as Low risk / High risk (or Screen Negative/Positive)
Feature |
NT Scan |
NIPT |
Test Type |
Ultrasound imaging |
Maternal blood test (cell-free DNA) |
When Done |
11–14 weeks |
From 10 weeks onward |
Method |
Measures nuchal translucency + fetal anatomy |
Analyzes fetal DNA fragments in maternal blood |
Accuracy |
~70–80% for chromosomal risk (improves with double marker) |
>99% for common trisomies (21, 18, 13) |
Information Provided |
Fetal growth, NT thickness, nasal bone, heart defects |
Chromosomal abnormalities risk, sex chromosomes, optional microdeletions |
Invasiveness |
Non-invasive ultrasound |
Non-invasive blood test |
Limitations |
Cannot confirm chromosomal abnormality; only suggests risk |
Still a screening test, not a diagnostic; may need confirmation with CVS/Amniocentesis |
Availability in India |
Widely available at all ultrasound centers |
Available at genetic testing labs, metro hospitals |
NIPT test reports provide accurate, non-invasive, and safe procedure to screen for common chromosomal abnormalities during pregnancy. This test report helps to analyze the risk for conditions such as Down Syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. Hence, this test is very important. You must undergo the NIPT to determine the chromosomal condition of your child.
An NT scan or Nuchal Translucency scan is prenatal ultrasound method that helps to assess the risk of certain genetic conditions like Down syndrome, Patau syndrome, and Edwards syndrome. This scan test measures the fluid-filled space at the baby's neck. This test indicates a higher risk for the conditions.
No, NIPT is not 100% accurate as it is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. This test results in false positive and false negative. Abnormal results need confirmation with diagnostic tests like amniocenteses or chorionic villus sampling and multiple factors like the amount of fetal DNA or maternal health conditions can influence the tests.
A normal NIPT test result indicates a low risk of the fetus having Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome. This test provides reassurance for the chromosomal condition of the fetus.
Usually, NIPT test results take between 7 and 14 days. However, some labs may have faster turnaround times.
NIPT report usually come within 8 to 12 business days. However, some labs may have faster turnaround times of 3 to 5 business days.
A NIPT test report sample looks like a multi-page document. It contains a patient's information, test details, and results for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, Edward syndrome etc.
* Medical Disclaimer - The following information is for educational purposes only. No information provided on this website, including text, graphic, and images, are intended as substitutes for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor about specific medical advice pertaining to your condition(s).
