A Natera test is a type of non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) or cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening offered during pregnancy. These tests analyze fetal DNA found in the pregnant individual’s blood to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. For instance, the test can screen for Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13), as well as sex chromosome aneuploidies. Certain options also offer screening for microdeletions, which are small missing pieces of chromosomes. Results are typically reported as a risk score, indicating a high or low chance of the fetus having the screened-for condition.
This form of screening offers several benefits. It provides expectant parents with earlier insights into the potential chromosomal health of their baby, often earlier than traditional screening methods. The non-invasive nature of the blood draw poses minimal risk to both the pregnant individual and the fetus. Understanding the likelihood of certain conditions allows for informed decisions regarding further diagnostic testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and can aid in preparing for the arrival of a child with specific needs. The technology for fetal DNA analysis from maternal blood has rapidly evolved, making this screening approach more accurate and reliable.
