What is
prenatal
screening?
Prenatal screening includes tests performed during pregnancy to assess the possibility of certain genetic or chromosomal conditions affecting the fetus before birth.
What is
These tests are divided into non-invasive screening tests and diagnostic tests, which are used together as part of prenatal care. Non-invasive tests, such as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), are safe for both the mother and the baby and can be offered to all pregnancies. They provide information on whether there is an increased likelihood of specific conditions.
When screening results indicate a higher risk, diagnostic testing may be recommended for confirmation.
Diagnostic procedures are invasive and carry a small but real risk of complications, which is why the accuracy
of non-invasive screening is particularly important.
Choose the right test for you
With VERACITY® and VERAgene®, you have the option to choose a reliable and safe non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT), with no risk of miscarriage. Both tests are performed using a simple maternal blood sample and can be done from the 10th week of pregnancy.
In these tests, cell-free fetal DNA from the mother’s blood is analyzed to screen for chromosomal abnormalities and selected genetic changes, including aneuploidies and microdeletions. In addition, VERAgene® includes screening for selected single-gene (monogenic) conditions in the biological parents.
Both tests can be offered to all pregnant women, regardless of age or risk category. The results support informed decision-making regarding pregnancy care and clinical management, in collaboration with the healthcare provider.
Questions
or more information?
Find the frequency asked question and answers to them below
FAQ
Find your answers
What is NIPT?
Non-invasive prenatal testing analyzes cell-free fetal DNA in the mother’s blood to assess the likelihood of certain genetic conditions in the fetus.
Why choose NIPT?
NIPT is considered the most accurate screening method for common fetal chromosomal conditions and can reduce the need for invasive diagnostic procedures, which carry a small miscarriage risk.
What conditions does it screen for?
NIPT can screen for:
• Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
• Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome)
• Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome)
• Sex chromosome abnormalities
• Selected microdeletions
What does screening mean?
Screening estimates risk; it is not diagnostic. If a higher risk is indicated, follow-up diagnostic testing may be recommended.
When can it be performed?
NIPT can be offered from the 10th week of pregnancy onwards.
Is it safe?
Yes. NIPT is non-invasive and poses no risk of miscarriage.
Who can take it?
It is suitable for singleton, twin, and IVF pregnancies, regardless of age or risk category.
Do I need a referral from my doctor? Is the test reimbursed?
We recommend discussing prenatal testing with your healthcare provider so it is appropriately integrated into your pregnancy care. However, you may also contact us directly for information and guidance.
At present, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is not reimbursed by the Greek public healthcare system.