How long do NIPT results take? Your pressing questions answered

Thanks to advancements in science, you can now gain insights into your child’s chromosomal health even before they’re born through the non-invasive NIPT test. It’s a simple and accessible screening procedure that can be done as early as your first trimester. 

However, due to the uncertainty surrounding the outcome of the test results, the anxious wait can lead many pregnant moms to wonder: How long do NIPT results take, and what affects the processing time?

In this article, we answer common questions about the NIPT timeline, detailing the testing procedure and how long it takes to process your results.

How long does it take for NIPT results to come back?

Source: Mikoto.raw Photographer

The time it takes for your NIPT results to be returned varies for every testing service. The results are typically released within three days of testing, but occasionally, it could take up to two weeks.

In the past, NIPT results took longer because very few labs could analyze the tests. However, as technology improved, the turnaround time for NIPT results also became quicker. 

While you may receive your results before the two-week period elapses, you may also be asked to re-do the test — for example, if the blood sample did not contain enough fetal or maternal DNA.

The table below gives you a clearer picture of the general timeline:

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/pregnant/comments/14b1osu/comment/jodhtqx/)(240)

Bonus — Read more about non-invasive prenatal testing procedures:

• Quad screen vs. NIPT

• First-trimester screening vs. NIPT

• NIPT vs. Amniocentesis

Why does it take that long to get the NIPT results?

Many parents-to-be ask, “Why is my NIPT taking so long?” as they eagerly await insights into their baby's health. The waiting period can be nerve-wracking, but understanding why you must wait can help ease your fears.   

NIPT typically begins with an ultrasound to: 

• Determine the viability of the pregnancy

• Check for the presence of twins (or more fetuses)

• Identify malformations that NIPT may not detect

If the doctor is positive that you can proceed with NIPT at that stage of your pregnancy, then a simple blood draw is done. Once the blood sample is collected, it’s sent to the lab for analysis, which is usually where a slight delay occurs due to the following processes:

1. Extracting all DNA fragments from the blood sample

2. Finding out the sequence of each fragment

3. Comparing the DNA sequences to reveal which chromosome belongs to which fragment

4. Looking for specific genetic markers associated with health conditions

5. Analyzing the results to find abnormalities in the chromosomes

Once these processes are completed, the lab will send you the results using your preferred method. Some services can also share your results with your healthcare provider if you request them to do so.  

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/firsttimemom/comments/1g3i0un/comment/lrwc7xs/)(350)

Other factors that could influence NIPT turnaround time 

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When it comes to getting your NIPT results, timing can vary. While the testing process is straightforward, there are several factors that might affect how long you wait for your results, including:

1. Lab processing speed

2. Technical issues and sample quality

3. Sample collection time

4. Testing volume

5. The type of test ordered

1. Lab processing speed

Every lab has its own capacity for handling DNA samples. Some labs can process your sample more quickly than others, which could speed up the entire process.

However, if one part of the analysis takes longer than expected, it might delay the results. Thankfully, some labs offer expedited services to help reduce the wait time. 

2. Technical issues and sample quality

Although rare, technical problems can occur, affecting the equipment or analysis procedure. This means the lab may need to re-analyze the sample, leading to further delay. 

Sample quality can also affect how quickly you receive your results. If the blood sample doesn’t contain sufficient fetal DNA, the lab may ask you to return so they can collect a new sample, adding to the overall timeline. 

3. Sample collection time

The time it takes for the sample to be transported to the laboratory may vary, depending on the service you use. In addition, the day and time your blood sample is collected can determine when it gets to the laboratory and when the processing begins. 

For example, if the sample is collected later in the week, it may not be processed until next week. Some labs may also not process samples during holidays, adding to the wait time. 

4. Testing volume 

Sometimes, delays happen because the lab is experiencing a high volume of tests. During particularly busy periods, some labs may find it challenging to manage the increased workload, leading to errors or processing delays. 

Handling more samples than usual can also extend the typical wait time, so you may need patience as they work through the queue.

5. The type of test ordered

Depending on your health provider’s concerns about the baby’s health, you may be asked to do a different type of NIPT screening, instead of the standard test.

Different NIPT tests screen for various conditions, which may require more complex analyses that can delay the results. 

For example, a basic NIPT test focuses on the common trisomies and has a faster turnaround time than expanded NIPT panels that screen for additional genetic conditions. 

Bonus — Learn more about other types of relevant prenatal genetic screenings:

• Hemophilia carrier testing

• Ashkenazi Jewish genetic test

• Cystic fibrosis carrier testing

• Preconception genetic testing  

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Can I get my NIPT results sooner?

Even though the standard timeline for receiving your results is one to two weeks, some medical facilities may be able to provide them sooner. 

[Reddit](https://www.reddit.com/r/NIPT/comments/1dyyl2w/comment/lccefr6/)(350)

Here are a few potential methods to get your results faster:

• Go for a provider with a faster turnaround time: If the typical turnaround time with one provider is longer than you’d like, ask for alternative testing facilities with quicker timeframes. Some providers may know and suggest labs with faster timelines based on their medical partnerships.

• Inquire about express options: Some private labs that offer premium services may be able to process your results faster, but it usually costs more. This expedited option is also not standard practice with all labs, so you should ask your provider or testing facility if they have such options.

• Check in with your provider after a while: If you’re nearing the end of the typical turnaround time and still haven’t received your results, you can follow up with your doctor to speed up the process.  

• Find out if there’s an online portal for releasing results: Sometimes, your results may be ready on time, but your healthcare provider hasn’t sent them to you. Some clinics have online portals where they post results once they’re ready, so you can monitor your results there.

While it’s natural to want your results as quickly as possible, sometimes, the wait is necessary — rushing the process may increase the risk of error.

What if I need to repeat my NIPT test?

Repeating your NIPT test can feel frustrating, but it may happen when there isn’t enough of the baby’s DNA in the initial blood sample. This typically occurs when you do the test too early in the pregnancy, which is why timing the test is important. 

A repeat test will naturally add to the waiting time, because:

1. You’ll need to go in for another blood draw

2. The new DNA sample will go through the lab again

3. It may take another one to two weeks before you receive your results

How to prevent a repeat test

Preventing a repeat test is not always possible, as sometimes your body may not have enough of the baby’s DNA to get definitive results. Still, doing the following may help you reduce the chances of needing a repeat test: 

Try not to worry too much if a repeat is needed, as this doesn’t necessarily indicate a problem with your baby, and a repeat test is usually successful.

What happens after I get my NIPT results?

Receiving your NIPT results usually brings a feeling of relief, but can also lead to more questions about your baby or pregnancy. Depending on the outcome, you may feel more confident about your pregnancy and ready to discuss next steps with your doctor. Your doctor may also give you additional or new instructions based on the results.

One option is to do an additional DNA test to gain deeper insight into your genetic predispositions. If you want to better understand your genetic makeup and how it may affect your baby’s health, consider advanced genetic testing options like whole-genome sequencing offered by Nucleus Family.

Nucleus Family provides an extensive analysis of your DNA, which can be incredibly valuable in discovering any maternal genetic risks. It can provide you with a bigger picture of your health and any inherited traits that might be passed on to your baby. 

The test screens for 900+ inheritable conditions with a single cheek swab. This enables you to make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being during pregnancy and beyond. 

Nucleus Family: Planning better for you and your baby

Nucleus Family offers a comprehensive and proactive approach to family planning. It uses WGS to provide an extensive, in-depth analysis of your DNA. Nucleus sequences 1000x more DNA than commercial testing services, revealing a broader understanding of your genetic predispositions. 

Nucleus uncovers your genetic risks for over 900 diseases, including:

• Heart conditions

• Hormonal health

• Muscular diseases

• Mental health

• Cancers

• Skin and hair conditions 

Your results are presented in a clear, easy-to-understand report, simplifying complex genetic information. To ensure expert guidance, Nucleus partners with SteadyMD, providing access to board-certified genetic counselors who can help you interpret your results further so you can make informed decisions. 

Conveniently conducted from home, Nucleus Family’s test is non-invasive and poses no risk to you or your baby. Nucleus is committed to your privacy — it’s HIPAA-compliant and adheres to strict certification standards like CLIA and CAP, ensuring your genetic information is handled with the highest levels of confidentiality, security, and care.

How to get started with Nucleus Family

Getting started with Nucleus is straightforward. These are the steps to follow:

1. Sign up for Nucleus Family.

2. Fill out your personal information

3. Order your test kit

Once your kit arrives, follow the instructions to collect your sample and return the kit using the provided packaging. Your results will be available in your account within 6–8 weeks.

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Featured image source: Mart Production