ACOG previously recommended NIPT only for people 35 and older or with other known genetic risk factors. But in 2020, they revised their recommendations and said it should be available to any pregnant person. The current ACOG policy says: “Prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing options should be discussed and offered to all pregnant patients regardless of maternal age or risk of chromosomal abnormality. After review and discussion, every patient has the right to pursue or decline prenatal genetic screening and diagnostic testing,” Because NIPT is an option doesn’t mean it’s the right choice for every family. Instead, it only means that doctors should offer it to every pregnant person. Whether or not to get NIPT is a personal choice. No one can tell you the right answer for you and your family. Here are some things to keep in mind about NIPT:
Not accurate for all genetic conditions: It can only accurately screen for a handful of conditions. Negative results (that is, results that don’t show risk for any of the conditions) can’t guarantee a healthy baby.
Screening, not diagnostic: Cell-free testing is preliminary, not conclusive. If the cell-free results are positive, your doctor will recommend that you get an amniocentesis or chorionic villus test. Both of these tests carry a small risk of miscarriage.
Knowledge can help you prepare: Knowing about potential genetic disorders can help you decide about your pregnancy and birth plan. It may influence which hospital you choose for delivery. It will also help your care team gather specialists your baby may need.
Genetic counselors can help: If NIPT and diagnostic results return positive for a genetic condition, talking to a genetic counselor can be very helpful. You shouldn’t have to be alone with the information.