Although NIPS is able to assess the 23th chromosome, national regulation prevents this test from being used to determine the gender of the fetus, in order to protect against gender imbalance.

Different companies have different protocol for performing NIPS. Genome-Wide Sequencing can typically be used on all 23 pairs of chromosomes. However, some companies do not have this capability.

Mothers are advised to undergo NIPS testing around the 10th week of pregnancy.

The exact sample requirements vary by company; however NIPS typically requires one tube of maternal blood. Generally, it takes between 8 and14 days to receive the results.

Yes, the mother is advised to undergo follow-up testing in order to confirm NIPS results before they make a decision regarding the course of pregnancy.

Due to the higher risk of Down syndrome pregnancies in older women, the National Health Administration sponsors pregnant women over the age of 34 to undergo amniocentesis. However, this invasive procedure is not required, and the mother still holds final decision making power. We provide is an article about this issue for your reference here:

NIPS can only detect chromosomal conditions, and many health conditions do not result from genetic abnormalities. Therefore, even if NIPS results do not show abnormality, the baby could still suffer from other health problems.

NIPS can only detect chromosomal conditions, and many health conditions do not result from genetic abnormalities. Therefore, even if NIPS results do not show abnormality, the baby could still suffer from other health problems.

Women more than 10 weeks pregnant and who do not have a history of organ transplantation or chromosome abnormalities are suitable for NIPS.

Most cases of Down syndrome result from non-inherited mutations, and a small number of cases result from the "Robinson translocation," an inherited mutation.

Most chromosome abnormalities result from non-inherited mutations. Therefore, there is always a chance that babies will be born with chromosome abnormalities, even if there is no family history of these issues.

The Nuchal scan can calculate the probability that a baby has Down syndrome, check for structural heart malformations, identify sites of embryo implantation, and determine the exact time of conception. For twins, it can assess the condition of the chorion, which can be helpful in making decisions about future care. We provide an article for further reference here:

Although 15-30% of Down syndrome babies have light spot on their hearts, ultrasounds also find this condition in 4-7% of normal babies. We recommend that all test options are discussed with a gynecologist in order to prevent unnecessary risk.