Heard of the Harmony Test or NIPT?
No? well let’s talk about why it’s worth considering. NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) is a simple, early blood test available from just 10 weeks that screens for potential genetic abnormalities in your baby. Think of it as your first little sneak peek into your baby’s world—providing peace of mind, confidence, and clarity when you need it most.
What makes NIPT so powerful?
Well, it’s the most accurate screening we’ve currently got for conditions like Down’s syndrome, Edwards’ syndrome, and Patau’s syndrome, boasting higher accuracy than the standard combined test offered at your 12-week scan. In fact, the NHS even uses NIPT as the go-to follow-up when mamas get a high-risk result from their initial combined screening. But here’s the game-changer: you can book your NIPT before the combined screening, giving you more insight and confidence before you even walk into that first trimester scan.
Imagine knowing the answers to some of the biggest questions in your pregnancy journey before that 12-week appointment.
Sounds empowering, right?
The process? Simple, Stress-free, and Straightforward.
Gone are the days when families in Yorkshire had to trek to across the region for a private NIPT. Now, a qualified midwife can come to you, right to your doorstep. Your NIPT appointment lasts about 30 minutes, and we handle everything—from taking the blood sample to filing the paperwork—right in the comfort of your home. No cold clinical rooms, no stress. Just a quick pinch, and you’re done.
And here’s the cherry on top: results come back within just 4 days. No waiting around or having a random stranger call you with sensitive news. We’re with you every step of the way, putting you at the centre of the story.
So, what’s in it for you?
One major advantage is the early detection of conditions like Down’s, Edwards’, and Patau’s syndromes as early as 10 weeks. But the magic doesn’t stop there. Our NIPT also identifies your baby’s sex and detects any X and Y chromosome anomalies, which could be linked to future challenges like infertility or developmental concerns. Having this information early gives you the opportunity to plan for the care your baby may need, allowing you to feel more prepared and in control.
And the best part?
It’s non-invasive. Unlike procedures that carry risks, this test is simply a blood draw from you, meaning no harm to your baby. Plus, the accuracy is top-notch, with a 99% detection rate.
But let’s keep it real—no test is perfect.
NIPT doesn’t screen for every genetic condition, focusing primarily on Down’s, Edwards’, Patau’s, and sex chromosome-related syndromes. There’s also a slim chance of a “false positive” result, which could cause some unnecessary stress and lead to further, more invasive testing. That said, this is a common challenge with any antenatal screening. They’re incredibly effective at telling us which babies aren’t affected but may overestimate risk in a small percentage of cases, worrying some families unnecessarily. If this is a big concern for you, you might even want to consider skipping all forms of antenatal screening, including the standard 12-week test, and rely more on other options.
At the end of the day, it’s always your call.
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” answer when it comes to antenatal screening. What’s right for one family might not even be on the radar for another. Your first pregnancy may feel totally different from your third or fourth, and the information you prioritize might shift. And that’s perfectly okay. The most important takeaway here? You have options!
It’s about making the decision that feels right for you and your growing family, based on all the information available. If you’re still unsure, book a free consultation with us, and we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons.
If you’re across the Yorkshire region, we are likely able to schedule your appointment within a few days of enquiry & because NIPT is now available from the comfort of your home, it removes a lot of the stress. It’s a quick, easy, and highly accurate screening that gives you and your family peace of mind while paving the way for thoughtful planning as you prepare for your baby’s arrival.
Ready to book?
Get in touch with us for a consultation, and let’s make sure you’re feeling confident, empowered, and ready to go!
Bailey & the YPM Team x