Dr. Mathew's Fetal ScansCare for the Unborn

NIPT in Kollam – Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing with Specialist Counselling

High-sensitivity screening for selected chromosomal conditions from a maternal blood sample after 10 weeks, with counselling and coordination by Dr. Mathew.

What is NIPT?

NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) analyses cell-free DNA fragments circulating in the mother's bloodstream. From a maternal blood sample, the laboratory estimates the chance of selected chromosomal conditions. It is non-invasive to the pregnancy, but it remains a screening test and does not assess every genetic condition.

When can NIPT be done?

Any time from 10 weeks 0 days onwards. Results in 7–10 days. Testing early leaves ample time for confirmatory diagnosis if ever needed.

What Does NIPT Screen For?

  • Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) — high-sensitivity screening; performance varies by laboratory and patient factors
  • Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) — screening performance differs from Trisomy 21 and depends on the laboratory panel
  • Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome) — screening performance differs from Trisomy 21 and depends on the laboratory panel
  • Sex chromosome conditions (Turner, Klinefelter) — extended panels
  • Selected microdeletion syndromes — where clinically indicated

Why do NIPT at a dedicated fetal medicine center?

NIPT is only as good as the counselling around it. A high-risk result without expert guidance causes needless panic; a low-risk result without a proper scan gives false reassurance. At Dr. Mathew's center in Kollam you get pre-test counselling, the right panel selection, correct interpretation, and — if ever needed — confirmatory amniocentesis under one roof. This is the standard of care followed in international fetal medicine practice.

NIPT and the NT Scan — Better Together

NIPT reads DNA; it cannot see anatomy. The 11–14 week NT scan detects structural problems, confirms your dates, diagnoses twins, and identifies early markers that NIPT cannot. International guidelines — including FMF UK protocols — recommend combining NIPT with the first trimester scan for the most complete early assessment of your baby.

What to Expect

A brief counselling session with Dr. Mathew is followed by a maternal blood draw; fasting is not required. Because no needle is placed into the uterus, NIPT does not carry the procedure-related miscarriage risk of CVS or amniocentesis, although ordinary blood-draw discomfort or bruising can occur. The accredited genetics laboratory processes the sample, and Dr. Mathew explains the report and any next step.

Serving South Kerala: Families travel for NIPT counselling and testing from Kollam, Kottarakkara, Karunagappally, Kundara, Paravur, Punalur, Kayamkulam, Pathanamthitta, Alappuzha, and Thiruvananthapuram — because a blood test with expert fetal medicine counselling is worth the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions – NIPT Kollam

When can NIPT be done in pregnancy?
NIPT can be performed any time from 10 weeks of pregnancy onwards — earlier than most other screening tests. There is no strict upper limit, but earlier testing gives you more time for confirmatory testing if needed. Results are typically available in 7 to 10 days.
How accurate is NIPT for Down syndrome?
NIPT has high sensitivity for Down syndrome, but performance varies by condition, laboratory and patient factors. It remains a screening test: a high-chance result should be discussed with a specialist and usually confirmed with diagnostic testing before pregnancy-management decisions are made.
Does NIPT replace the NT scan?
No — they are complementary, not interchangeable. NIPT analyses fetal DNA for chromosomal conditions, but it cannot see your baby's anatomy. The NT scan detects structural defects, confirms dates, diagnoses twins, and assesses early markers. International guidelines recommend the 11–14 week scan even when NIPT is done. Dr. Mathew counsels you on the right combination for your pregnancy.
Is NIPT safe for my baby?
NIPT requires a blood sample from the mother and does not place a needle into the uterus, so it does not carry the procedure-related miscarriage risk associated with CVS or amniocentesis. Standard blood-draw effects such as brief discomfort or bruising can occur.
What conditions does NIPT screen for?
Standard NIPT screens for Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome), Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome), and Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome). Extended panels can include sex chromosome conditions and selected microdeletions. Dr. Mathew explains which panel is appropriate for your situation during counselling.
What happens if my NIPT result is high risk?
Do not panic — a high-risk result is not a diagnosis. Dr. Mathew personally explains what the result means and offers confirmatory diagnostic testing (amniocentesis or CVS), performed under ultrasound guidance at the center. Having screening, counselling, and confirmation under one roof in Kollam means you are never left without guidance.
How much does this scan or test cost?
Fees vary by the exact scan or test advised. Call 9562390009 for the current fee; the team will confirm it before your appointment.
When will I receive the result?
Ultrasound findings are discussed with you and the written scan report is normally provided on the same day. Laboratory tests have separate processing times, which are explained before testing.
How do I book an appointment?
Call 9562390009 or use the booking link on this page. Appointments are required so enough time can be reserved for the examination and discussion.

Authoritative sources

All answers written and medically reviewed by Dr. Mathew Thomas, MBBS, MD (Radiodiagnosis), FMF UK Certified · Last updated 17 July 2026

Book Your NIPT Counselling

Get >99% accurate answers with expert guidance — from 10 weeks of pregnancy. Prior appointment mandatory.

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First trimester screening at 11–14 weeks — combines with NIPT.

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Amniocentesis & CVS

Confirmatory diagnostic testing if NIPT is high risk.

Call 9562390009