NIPD for fetal sex determination

NIPD for fetal sex determination is available during pregnancy to women who are carriers of sex-linked genetic conditions. Sex linked conditions either effect only males or only females.

If you are at risk of a sex-linked genetic condition and are considering testing during your pregnancy, you should speak to a health professional, such as a genetic counsellor, so that they can explain the different types of tests to you. You can speak to your GP about getting a referral to your local genetics centre. Details of how to contact your local genetics centre are available here. (http://www.bshg.org.uk/genetic_centres/uk_genetic_centres.htm)

NIPD for Down syndrome

NIPD for Down syndrome has recently become available through a commercial company in the USA.

In the UK, NIPD tests for Down syndrome are in development and are currently being assessed. This test is not available anywhere in the UK at present.

Other types of prenatal tests for Down syndrome are available, such as screening tests and invasive diagnostic tests. If you are considering testing for Down syndrome during your pregnancy you should speak to your local obstetrics team.