Early pregnancy can be a time of excitement, change, and many important decisions, whether you’re navigating this journey for the first time or growing your family in a new way. For many parents and whānau, learning more about their baby’s health is an important part of feeling prepared and supported.
From as early as 10 weeks into pregnancy, one option available is non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS), a simple blood test that provides information about the chance of certain chromosomal conditions. Illumiscreen offers highly accurate screening for conditions including Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and Patau syndrome.
Unlike some screening options, Illumiscreen looks at all 23 pairs of chromosomes, providing a broader picture of your baby’s genetic health. It can also screen for differences in sex chromosomes, such as Turner syndrome, and can identify your baby’s sex, if you choose to know.
The process is straightforward. With a referral from your healthcare provider, such as a midwife, GP or obstetrician, you can have your blood sample collected at one of 150+ Awanui collection centres across Aotearoa. The test is safe for both mum and baby, requiring only a standard blood sample, and results are typically available within 7 working days.
While this is a screening test, not a diagnosis, it can offer valuable insights early in pregnancy. For some, that means reassurance. For others, it may provide time to seek further support, explore next steps, and make informed decisions alongside their healthcare provider. We work closely with experienced genetic counsellors who are available to help your health care provider understand your results and support you in considering your options with confidence.
Flexible payment options are available online, including Afterpay, helping make testing more accessible for families and whānau.
If you’re considering genetic screening, a conversation with your healthcare provider can help you decide what feels right for you, your baby, and your wider support network.
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BUMP & baby is New Zealand’s only magazine for pregnancy and early babyhood. Our team of mums and mums-to-be understand what it’s like to be pregnant in this connected age, and that’s why BUMP & Baby online is geared toward what pregnant women and new mums really want to know.
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