Do you need a referral for NIPT?

NIPT analyses cell-free DNA in a pregnant person's blood to screen for selected chromosomal conditions. It is a screening test, not a diagnosis. A referral or clinician consultation helps confirm gestational age, explain what the panel includes and discuss what a higher-chance result could mean. Your maternity team can also advise whether ultrasound assessment or diagnostic testing is needed.

Ask your obstetrician, midwife or maternal-fetal medicine clinician whether they can arrange NIPT. If you contact a laboratory yourself, ask whether a referral, prescription, identity documents or appointment is required. Confirm when the blood sample should be taken, how results will be shared and who will explain them. Keep your ultrasound and pregnancy records available.

NIPT is not an emergency test. Contact your maternity service promptly for vaginal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, fluid leakage, fainting or concerns about your wellbeing during pregnancy. Do not delay urgent assessment while arranging screening.

Ask what conditions the test screens for, whether ultrasound is also recommended, how an inconclusive result is handled, and who will discuss any result that needs follow-up.