You Are Approaching 10 Weeks
This is a useful time to discuss prenatal screening options, check the test's minimum gestational age and understand what the results can tell you.
When Should You Do an NICC/NIPT Test? Why 10 Weeks Matters
When Should You Do an NICC/NIPT Test? Why 10 Weeks Matters
Wondering when to take an NICC or NIPT test during pregnancy? Learn why testing commonly starts at 10 weeks, what can affect timing, and what to discuss before arranging non-invasive chromosome screening in Johor Bahru.
Explore NICC ScreeningQuick Answer: When Can You Do an NICC/NIPT Test?
NICC/NIPT can generally be performed from around 10 weeks of pregnancy. It uses a blood sample from the pregnant woman to screen for selected chromosomal conditions. Ten weeks is a common starting point because the sample needs sufficient pregnancy-associated cell-free DNA for laboratory analysis. The exact timing depends on the test provider and individual pregnancy circumstances.
NICC/NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. A high-risk result does not confirm a condition, and a low-risk result does not rule out every genetic or developmental condition.
For package details, visit the Southern Health Centre NICC service page.
Understanding the Timing
Why Is NICC/NIPT Usually Done From 10 Weeks?
NICC, also known as non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) in many settings, analyses cell-free DNA fragments present in the pregnant woman's bloodstream. Some of these fragments originate from the placenta and can be used to estimate the likelihood of selected chromosomal conditions.
The proportion of pregnancy-associated cell-free DNA in maternal blood is important for obtaining a reliable, reportable result. If testing is performed before the test's recommended gestational age, there may not be enough of the relevant DNA available for the laboratory to analyse successfully.
For many NIPT services, 10 weeks of pregnancy is the usual earliest testing point. However, eligibility and requirements can vary by laboratory, test panel and pregnancy circumstances. Confirm the recommended timing with your healthcare professional before arranging the test.
Is 10 Weeks a Deadline?
No. Ten weeks is generally the earliest point at which many NIPT tests can be performed, not a deadline. If you are already more than 10 weeks pregnant, you may still be able to have screening. Ask your healthcare professional about the appropriate timing for your situation.
Choosing the Right Time
What Is the Best Time to Do NICC/NIPT?
There is no single best week for every pregnancy. For many expectant parents, testing from around 10 weeks offers an opportunity to screen for selected chromosomal conditions relatively early in pregnancy.
The right time to consider NICC/NIPT depends on more than the number of weeks you are pregnant. Your healthcare professional may consider your pregnancy history, previous screening results, ultrasound findings and the requirements of the specific test.
You Are Already More Than 10 Weeks
You may still be eligible for NICC/NIPT. Confirm the timing, available panel and next steps with your healthcare professional.
You Have Had an Ultrasound
Tell your healthcare professional about any ultrasound findings. Ultrasound and chromosome screening provide different information and may be considered together.
You Have Previous Screening Results
Share any previous prenatal screening results so your healthcare professional can explain whether further screening or a different approach should be considered.
Before Your Appointment
What Should You Consider Before Taking NICC/NIPT?
Before arranging an NICC/NIPT test, make sure you understand the purpose of the screening and the conditions included in the selected panel. Different tests may cover different conditions, so do not assume that all NICC or NIPT packages provide identical results.
- Confirm your gestational age. Check that you have reached the minimum pregnancy week required for the specific test.
- Review your pregnancy history. Tell your healthcare professional about relevant previous pregnancies, screening tests and ultrasound findings.
- Understand the screening panel. Ask which chromosomal conditions are included in the selected test.
- Know the limitations. Screening estimates the likelihood of selected conditions; it does not diagnose every genetic or developmental condition.
- Ask about possible results. Understand what a low-risk, high-risk or non-reportable result could mean.
- Discuss follow-up arrangements. Ask who will explain the results and what further assessment might be recommended.
NICC/NIPT is a personal screening choice. A healthcare professional can help you understand the available options and whether screening or diagnostic testing is appropriate in your circumstances.
What to Expect
What Happens During an NICC/NIPT Test?
NICC/NIPT uses a maternal blood sample, so the sample collection itself does not involve inserting a needle into the uterus. The process generally includes a discussion of your pregnancy details, blood collection and laboratory analysis.
Consultation
Your gestational age, pregnancy history and questions about chromosome screening are reviewed.
Review of Test Options
The available screening panel is explained, including the conditions covered and the limitations of the test.
Blood Collection
A blood sample is collected from the pregnant woman for laboratory analysis. Follow any preparation instructions provided by the clinic.
Results and Follow-Up
Your healthcare professional explains the result and whether any further assessment is recommended.
Laboratory turnaround times and the possibility of a non-reportable result vary by provider and individual circumstances. Ask the clinic for the current expected timeframe rather than relying on a general estimate.
To review the available screening options, visit Southern Health Centre's NICC service page.
Screening and Scans
Do You Still Need an Ultrasound If You Have NICC/NIPT?
Yes. NICC/NIPT does not replace recommended antenatal ultrasound scans. The tests have different purposes and provide different types of information about a pregnancy.
| NICC/NIPT | Ultrasound |
|---|---|
| Analyses cell-free DNA in maternal blood. | Uses sound waves to produce images of the pregnancy. |
| Screens for selected chromosomal conditions included in the test panel. | Assesses aspects of the pregnancy, fetal growth and development depending on the scan and gestational age. |
| Provides a screening result, not a definitive diagnosis. | May identify findings that require further assessment, but cannot detect every condition. |
Continue recommended antenatal care and discuss the appropriate schedule for ultrasound scans with your healthcare professional. A low-risk NICC/NIPT result does not remove the need for routine pregnancy monitoring.
Understanding Results
What If Your NICC/NIPT Result Is High Risk, Low Risk or Non-Reportable?
Understanding the possible outcomes before testing can help you make an informed decision. NICC/NIPT results must be interpreted in the context of the particular test, your pregnancy and any other relevant findings.
Low-Risk Result
A low-risk result reduces the likelihood of the specific chromosomal conditions screened for. It does not mean the risk is zero or rule out every genetic, chromosomal or developmental condition.
High-Risk Result
A high-risk result indicates an increased likelihood of a condition screened for. It does not confirm a diagnosis. Your healthcare professional may recommend genetic counselling and diagnostic testing where appropriate.
Non-Reportable Result
Sometimes the laboratory cannot provide a result. This may happen for several reasons, including an insufficient proportion of pregnancy-associated DNA. Follow-up depends on the circumstances and clinical advice.
Further Assessment
Depending on the findings, your healthcare professional may discuss repeat screening, ultrasound assessment or diagnostic testing such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.
Screening Is Not the Same as Diagnosis
A high-risk result should not be treated as confirmation that a baby has a chromosomal condition. Discuss the result with a qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about further testing or pregnancy care.
Quick Reference
NICC/NIPT Timing: A Simple Pregnancy Timeline
This timeline provides a general overview. Your healthcare professional should confirm the appropriate timing for your particular pregnancy and the test being considered.
| Pregnancy Stage | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Before 10 weeks | Discuss prenatal screening options, confirm gestational age and check the minimum timing for the chosen test. |
| Around 10 weeks | Many NICC/NIPT services may be available from this point, subject to the provider's requirements and clinical advice. |
| After 10 weeks | Screening may still be an option. Discuss timing, previous results and the available test panel with your healthcare professional. |
| After receiving results | Review what the result means and whether any additional assessment is appropriate. |
| Throughout pregnancy | Continue recommended antenatal appointments and ultrasound scans, regardless of the screening result. |
The key point: 10 weeks is a common starting point for NICC/NIPT, not a deadline. The appropriate timing depends on the specific test and individual clinical circumstances.
Prenatal Screening in Johor Bahru
Considering NICC/NIPT in Johor Bahru?
If you are looking for non-invasive chromosome screening in Johor Bahru (JB), it is helpful to review the available test panels, the conditions screened for and the consultation process before booking.
Southern Health Centre provides information about its Non-Invasive Chromosome Check (NICC) service for expectant parents. The service page outlines the available Basic and Advanced package options and explains important screening limitations.
What to Confirm Before Booking
- Whether you have reached the required gestational age.
- Which chromosomal conditions are included in the selected package.
- Whether any additional screening options are available and appropriate for you.
- What the screening can and cannot tell you.
- How results are communicated and what follow-up may be needed.
- The current package details, appointment availability and preparation instructions.
For the latest information about the service, visit the NICC screening page. Confirm current package inclusions and arrangements directly with the clinic.
Explore NICC Screening at Southern Health Centre
If you are approaching 10 weeks of pregnancy or are already further along, speak with a healthcare professional about whether NICC/NIPT is appropriate for you. Review the available screening options and understand the benefits and limitations before deciding.
View NICC Service Details Visit Our Health Screening CentreFrequently Asked Questions
NICC/NIPT Timing FAQs
When should you do an NICC/NIPT test?
NICC/NIPT can generally be performed from around 10 weeks of pregnancy. The exact timing depends on the test provider, gestational age and individual pregnancy circumstances. Confirm eligibility with your healthcare professional.
Can I do NIPT at 10 weeks?
Yes. Many NIPT services accept samples from around 10 weeks of pregnancy. Your healthcare professional or test provider should confirm that you meet the requirements for the specific test.
Why is NIPT usually done from 10 weeks?
The test analyses cell-free DNA in maternal blood, including DNA fragments originating from the placenta. Testing from the recommended gestational age helps the laboratory obtain a sample suitable for analysis.
Is 10 weeks too early for NICC/NIPT?
Ten weeks is a common minimum gestational age for many NICC/NIPT tests. However, the requirements vary by provider. Confirm your gestational age and test eligibility before having the sample collected.
Can I do NICC/NIPT after 12 weeks?
Often, yes. Being more than 10 or 12 weeks pregnant does not automatically mean you have missed the opportunity for screening. Ask your healthcare professional about the appropriate timing based on your circumstances and the specific test.
Does the timing of NIPT affect the result?
Gestational age can affect the amount of pregnancy-associated cell-free DNA in the maternal blood sample. If a sample is not suitable for analysis, the laboratory may be unable to provide a result. Follow the test provider's timing instructions.
Do I need an ultrasound before or after NICC/NIPT?
Ultrasound and NICC/NIPT provide different information. NICC/NIPT does not replace recommended antenatal ultrasound scans. Discuss the appropriate scan schedule with your healthcare professional.
Is NICC/NIPT a diagnostic test?
No. NICC/NIPT is a screening test that estimates the likelihood of selected chromosomal conditions. A high-risk result does not confirm a diagnosis, and diagnostic testing may be discussed where appropriate.
What happens if my NIPT result is high risk?
A high-risk result indicates an increased likelihood of the condition screened for, not a confirmed diagnosis. Your healthcare professional may recommend counselling, ultrasound assessment and diagnostic testing depending on the circumstances.
What happens if the laboratory cannot provide an NIPT result?
A non-reportable result can occur for several reasons, including an insufficient proportion of pregnancy-associated DNA. Contact your healthcare professional to discuss the result and the appropriate next step. Do not assume that a non-reportable result means low risk.
Where can I get an NICC/NIPT test in Johor Bahru?
You can review the service details and available package information on the Southern Health Centre NICC page. Contact the clinic to confirm current availability, package inclusions and appointment arrangements.
Medical Information Notice
This article is for general educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. NICC/NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test. Test availability, screening coverage and timing may vary by provider and individual circumstances. Discuss prenatal screening options, results and any need for further testing with a qualified healthcare professional.
22 Oct 2026
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