NIPT Test in Nepal — Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing

What is NIPT?

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a maternal blood test that analyses small fragments of placental DNA — called cell-free fetal DNA — circulating in the mother's bloodstream. Because this DNA originates from the placenta, it reflects the baby's chromosomal makeup.

Unlike invasive diagnostic tests (CVS or amniocentesis), NIPT requires only a standard blood draw from the mother's arm — there is no needle near the baby and zero procedure-related miscarriage risk.

What does NIPT screen for?

The core NIPT panel screens for the three most common chromosomal trisomies: Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). Extended panels can add sex chromosome abnormalities (Turner, Klinefelter) and selected microdeletion syndromes.

It is important to understand that NIPT is a screening test — it reports a probability, not a diagnosis. A high-risk result is confirmed through diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis with karyotype or microarray).

NIPT in Nepal — availability

NIPT is available in Nepal through our Kathmandu service. Blood samples are collected locally and processed at accredited reference laboratories, with confidential reports returned typically within 7–14 days.

Walk-in sample collection is available at the clinic, and home or hotel sample collection can be arranged for maximum convenience — including for patients travelling or preferring privacy.

Who should consider NIPT?

NIPT is suitable for any pregnant woman from 10 weeks of gestation — singleton pregnancies and, in many panels, twin pregnancies. It is particularly valuable for women with a high-risk double-marker or quadruple-screen result, maternal age 35 or above, a previous pregnancy affected by trisomy, IVF pregnancies, or anyone wanting the most accurate non-invasive reassurance.

Screening vs diagnosis

NIPT is the most accurate prenatal screen available, but positive results still require diagnostic confirmation. Our team coordinates the full pathway — from screening to diagnostic testing to genetic counseling — so you are supported at every step.