What is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing?

What Is It?

• The cell-free DNA prenatal screening test screens for certain conditions caused by an abnormal number of chromosomes. It does not test for all types of chromosomal disorders.

When Can It Be Done?

• Cell-free DNA test can be done as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy and up until delivery.

How Is It Done?

• Some of the genetic material (DNA) from the pregnancy circulates in the pregnant woman's blood. The cell-free DNA test is done on a sample of her blood.
• Screening tests are used to estimate whether your fetus is at higher risk or lower risk of having a certain condition.
• A blood sample is taken from the pregnant woman that contains her DNA and DNA from the pregnancy. The sample is analyzed in a laboratory to check for an abnormal amount of DNA from chromosomes 21, 18, and 13.

Author

Dr. Mia Mowzoon, MD Dr. Mia Mowzoon is an OB/GYN at North Scottsdale Women's Health. She practices obstetrics and delivers her patients at Honor Health Shea. Known as "Dr Mia" to her patients, she is focused on creating the best possible birthing experience for new mothers. She also specializes in the most up-to-date, minimally invasive surgical techniques. Dr. Mia Mowzoon was born and raised in the valley, and is a true Scottsdale native. When she’s not delivering babies, she enjoys spin classes, hot yoga, hiking, cooking and trying new restaurants.