Safe test

Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

Epsom and St Helier maternity units offer the option of non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in addition to your routine pregnancy screening tests. We use a process called the SAFE Test.

What is the SAFE Test?

The SAFE test can determine, with remarkable accuracy, whether a pregnancy is at risk of certain chromosomal conditions, such as Down’s Syndrome. It can be performed as early as 10 weeks by taking a small sample of the mother’s blood and using cutting-edge genetic technology. The testing is non-invasive, so the pregnancy is not put at risk. The woman needing the test needs to have arranged to have a private scan before she is able to book the private SAFE test with us

Why would I have the SAFE test?

The usual combined test offered to all pregnant women and the SAFE tests are different in how they test and in the accuracy of their results. The SAFE test has greater accuracy for the detection of certain conditions. High risk women will be offered the SAFE test as part of their screening package; however it is available at an extra cost to all women.

Further information is available in your booking pack or from your midwife.

For a further discussion or to book a test, please contact the Epsom Antenatal Office on 01372 735664, or our St Helier Antenatal Screening Midwife on 020 8296 2057.