Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) in Singapore: What Expectant Parents Should Know
- Eng Loy Tan
- Sep 27
- 4 min read
Introduction: A Common Question in Pregnancy Care
One of the most frequent questions many mothers ask early in pregnancy is: “Should I consider NIPT?”
Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has become an important option for expectant parents in Singapore. With just a simple blood test, it can provide highly accurate information about certain genetic conditions in your baby. But like all tests, it’s not for everyone — and understanding what it offers (and what it doesn’t) will help you make an informed decision.
What is NIPT?
NIPT is a screening test that analyses fragments of placental DNA circulating in a mother’s blood. From as early as 10 weeks of pregnancy, this test can assess the likelihood that a baby may have certain chromosomal conditions — all without any risk to the pregnancy.
This makes NIPT different from diagnostic tests like chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, which carry a small risk of miscarriage.
What Does NIPT Screen For?
Most NIPT panels look for the following:
Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
Some tests may also screen for sex chromosome conditions and report on the baby’s sex, though this is optional.
Benefits of NIPT
NIPT is often considered because it offers:
High accuracy — more reliable than traditional first trimester combined screening.
Lower false positives — fewer mothers are told they are “high risk” when the baby is actually healthy.
Early reassurance — can be performed from week 10 of pregnancy.
Limitations to Be Aware Of
While highly accurate, NIPT is not a “yes/no” diagnostic test. Important points to note include:
Confirmatory tests may be required if results are high-risk.
Not all genetic conditions are detected — only the specific ones included in the test panel.
Possible test failure — in cases such as low fetal fraction or multiple pregnancies.
NIPT vs Other Prenatal Screening Options
In Singapore, many parents also hear about the OSCAR or first trimester combined test, which uses ultrasound markers and maternal blood results.
Test | Timing | Conditions Screened | Accuracy | Invasiveness |
OSCAR / FTS | 11–14 weeks | Trisomy 21, 18, 13 | Moderate | Non-invasive |
NIPT | From 10 weeks | Trisomy 21, 18, 13 (+/- others) | High | Non-invasive |
Amniocentesis / CVS | After 11 weeks | Broader genetic conditions | Diagnostic | Invasive |
For many, NIPT is chosen for its balance of early timing and accuracy. But cost, availability, and personal values also play a role in decision-making.
NIPT In The Singapore Context
NIPT is widely available in Singapore. Different hospitals and clinics may offer different test panels, and prices can vary. Expectant parents should ask about:
What conditions are included in the test?
How results are explained and followed up?
What the next steps are if results are high-risk?
At E K and E L Women’s Clinic, our pregnancy care includes detailed first trimester scans and a discussion of available screening options, including NIPT.
Respecting Your Choice
Every pregnancy is unique, and so is every parent’s decision. Some parents feel reassured by the extra information NIPT provides, while others choose not to undergo genetic testing at all. Both are valid choices.
Our role as obstetricians is not to decide for you, but to provide the information and guidance you need to make the choice that feels right.
When to Speak to Your Doctor
For many mothers, the first pregnancy visit happens around 7–8 weeks. At this stage, we usually confirm the pregnancy with an ultrasound and check that everything looks healthy.
It’s also the perfect time to start discussing upcoming screening options. NIPT can only be done from 10 weeks onwards, but planning ahead allows you to:
Understand the differences between NIPT and other screening tests (like OSCAR).
Decide whether NIPT is right for you and your family.
Book your test at the right time so it fits smoothly with your 12-week detailed ultrasound.
👉 If you would like to discuss NIPT or other pregnancy screening options, you can book an appointment here.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to do NIPT?
From 10 weeks of pregnancy.
Does NIPT check for all genetic conditions?
No. It only screens for selected chromosomal abnormalities.
Is NIPT covered by insurance in Singapore?
Most insurers do not cover it, as it is considered an optional screening test.
Closing Note
NIPT is an excellent option for many expectant parents in Singapore — but it is not the only one. Taking time to understand your choices, in consultation with your doctor, ensures that your pregnancy journey is informed, empowered, and supported every step of the way.
👉 If you’d like to explore whether NIPT is suitable for you, you can book an appointment with us.
About the Author
Dr Tan Eng Loy is an obstetrician and gynaecologist at E K and E L Women’s Clinic, Singapore. He believes in maternal-centric care, supporting mothers in making informed choices, and respecting their preferences for natural childbirth and pregnancy care.
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