Can I have private NIPT screening in Cornwall?
NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening), sometimes called the Harmony blood test is a simple, non-invasive blood test which can provide important screening information for your pregnancy.
As the only midwife-led provider of this screening test in Cornwall, I offer sensitive and supportive care from an experienced midwife, in your own home.
Midwife holds two private blood tests in her gloved hand. She took the blood at home for her pregnant client for NIPT Harmony screening.
What is NIPT?
NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) looks at fragments of your baby’s DNA circulating in your blood. It can screen for certain chromosomal differences with high accuracy. It is a simple blood-test, carried out with me at your home.
What does NIPT screen for?
NIPT can assess the chance of:
• Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
• Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
• Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
It can also offer sex chromosome information (early gender testing) although this is optional if you would prefer to have a surprise!
How accurate is NIPT screening?
NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnosis.
It is reported to be highly accurate, but positive results usually need confirmatory testing (like CVS or amniocentesis).
When can I have NIPT screening?
NIPT can be undertaken from 10 weeks of pregnancy onwards. Your results usually come back within a week. I will personally contact you to discuss the results.
Why do parents choose to have private NIPT screening?
Many families choose NIPT because it offers:
• Early screening
• Higher accuracy than the NHS combined test
• More information to support planning
• Peace of mind
• Can support early bonding
Why do some parents decide against screening?
Having NIPT screening isn’t for everyone. Some parents decline NIPT because:
• They prefer to avoid early testing or scans
• It won’t change their decisions
• They want to reduce anxiety
• They feel well-supported with standard NHS screening
What should I think about when having private NIPT blood screening?
Before deciding, reflect on:
• How you handle uncertainty
• Whether you want to know sex-chromosome information
• What you would do with unexpected results
• What kind of support you have around you
• if you are happy to have an early scan (you must be 10+ weeks by scan)
How does private screening work on the day?
Send an enquiry by email or phone
We arrange your home appointment at a convenient time
Your visit can include midwifery support ( this can cover assessment of pregnancy sickness, support for pregnancy wellbeing, birth planning etc.)
I will contact you with your results directly (usually within 2-4 working days).
If you have an unexpected or ambiguous result, I will support you and liase with your NHS screening team to help you work out the next steps.
How much is a private NIPT screening test?
This test is not offered routinely in the NHS.
The cost of the private lab screening is £450. You have the option to add on any other private blood screening such as thyroid or glucose screening for an additional charge.
