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Non-Invasive Prenatal Screening Service: For a Worry-Free Pregnancy

September 13th, 2024

Pregnancy is a time filled with joy, but for many expectant mothers, also with concerns. The stress linked to uncertainty about your baby’s health can be a source of worry. While a number of tests are available to monitor your pregnancy, some of them invasive, it can be hard to know where to begin. Non-invasive prenatal screening tests help women ease their fears by taking a more preventive approach.

pregnant woman

For peace of mind regarding your baby’s health, choose the non-invasive prenatal genomic test (NIPT) available at Biron. This service is an accurate and reliable test. It is recommended for any pregnant person who wishes to assess the risk of trisomy 21 or other genetic anomalies such as trisomies 18 and 13.

How does NIPT work?

As early as the 10th week of pregnancy, a sufficient amount of placental DNA is circulating in the mother’s bloodstream, allowing the screening test to be performed using a simple blood test. Compared to traditional biochemical screening tests, NIPT offers a higher detection rate for trisomies 21, 18 and 13, along with fewer false-positive results, thereby avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures. The test can also predict the baby’s sex, if desired.

Interpreting the results

A positive result indicates a higher risk of your baby being affected by one of the trisomies detected. The result includes a positive predictive value (PPV), which indicates the probability that the positive result is in fact associated with a trisomy. The PPV is calculated based on several factors, including the pregnant person’s age. It is important to note that a positive result requires confirmation with a diagnostic test, such as amniocentesis.

On the other hand, a negative result indicates a low risk of the baby being affected by a trisomy. However, it cannot guarantee the total absence of chromosomal abnormalities.

The Biron difference

Biron offers you two prenatal testing options: Harmony and Verifi. While Harmony is more widely known, Verifi stands out for its lower cost and faster results.

Test Cost Resultts Failure rate [1] Amount of blood sampled
Verifi $429 3 to 5 business days 0,6% 1 tube of maternel blood
Harmony $449 5 to 10 business days 3% 2 tubes of maternal blood

A medical prescription is required for the test, and the results will be interpreted by your attending physician to make sure you receive the right care. Most private insurers cover all or part of the cost of sampling and laboratory analysis.

Book an appointment today

Avoid any lingering doubt: Book an appointment online or contact us at 1-833-590-2712.

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