The SAFE test is a type of NIPT that can be used to screen for conditions such as Down’s syndrome during pregnancy. It is a simple blood test that can determine whether your baby is at high or low probability of chromosomal conditions.
Screen for Down’s, Edward’s and Patau’s syndromesGreater detection than the Nuchal Translucency ScanResults back in 7 days on averageFull report on your NIPT resultsHigh or low probability result for each conditionComplete ultrasound scan reportThe SAFE test is a blood test that can be performed from just 10 weeks into your pregnancy. It can screen for the most common forms of trisomy: Down’s syndrome, Edward’s syndrome and Patau’s syndrome. You can also choose to find out your baby’s gender using this test.
NIPT can provide important information about all pregnancies, but it is particularly valuable if you are at higher probability, for example if you are older parents. The SAFE test can’t screen for all of the conditions that are covered by the Harmony and Panorama tests, but it can be a good option if you are only interested in the more common types of chromosomal conditions. The SAFE test has the lowest redraw rate (when a second blood sample if required to complete the test) and the results should be back within 5-10 days, so it is faster than the Panorama test.
You will receive a report telling you the probability of each of the conditions included in the test. For example, a low probability result for Down’s syndrome in the SAFE test means that the chance your baby is affected is less than 1 in 10,000.
The SAFE test can be performed at any time after 10 weeks, so we recommend scheduling it before your Nuchal Translucency Scan.We will begin with an ultrasound scan to check on your baby.NIPT is a blood test, so we will take a small sample to send to the lab for the SAFE test. The results should be ready in about 5-10 days.The SAFE test results will tell you if your baby is at high or low probability for each of the conditions that was included in the screening.If you receive any high probability results, then you will be able to talk to one of our NIPT experts. You should also discuss the results with your midwife or obstetrician. You may want to arrange further tests, such as amniocentesis, to confirm the result.We can perform the SAFE test at any time after 10 weeks, but the best time to have it is before the Nuchal ultrasound. If you would like to book your NIPT appointment in Cheshire, then it’s easy to do so through our online system. You should also feel free to get in touch if you need more advice on NIPT or help selecting the right test for you.
Please note in the circumstance that during your appointment an ultrasound scan is performed but we do not proceed to the NIPT, a fee of £120 (£180 for evening/weekend appointments) will be charged for the appointment only. If booked online, £380 will be refunded to you.
Please note Anticoagulation therapy (blood thinners) can increase the possibility of receiving No Result for your NIPT. Please leave as long between administering your dose and your NIPT appointment as possible. For example, if you administer in the evening and have an early morning appointment, either change to an appointment late in the day, or refrain from your evening dose. If you administer in the morning, refrain from that dose until after your appointment. If you have any queries regarding this, please contact our team admin@thebirthcompany.co.uk.
For further information please see below:
Anticoagulation Therapy Publication
Some early pregnancy ultrasound scans are performed using a transvaginal probe technique. This technique is used to view the pelvic anatomy optimally, as the ultrasound probe can transmit safe ultrasound waves more directly to the pelvic area. In later stages of pregnancy, it may be advised to perform a transvaginal ultrasound scan to have a closer look at a baby’s anatomy, or to assess the maternal cervix.
There is no clinical risk associated with performing a transvaginal ultrasound scan. Transvaginal ultrasound scans can safely be performed during episodes of vaginal bleeding.
It is important that you understand the procedure that is associated with this examination.
The ultrasound transducer will be placed in the vagina (the probe is prepared using high grade medical disinfectant) The transducer will be introduced with a latex / non latex type covering and sterile ultrasound gel. It will be necessary to move the transducer from side to side, up and down and may be swivelled to obtain ultrasound images of your pelvic anatomy. If you prefer, you may insert the transducer yourself, otherwise the person conducting the examination will do this. A third person may be present during the examination acting as a chaperone, if required by the sonographer or yourself. You may request the examination to be stopped at any time during the procedure. 
We had received possible worrying news from our NHS anomaly scan, without much information provided or confirmation. I am so pleased that we came to The Birth Company for reassurance, as we are now extremely happy that everything is fine. Shahrzad was fantastic and went through the whole anomaly scan thoroughly, explaining everything and looking in detail at each area. Nothing was rushed and she took her time to make sure baby was in the correct position to get the best results. We can’t thank her and Dr Gibb enough for the confidence they have given us. Would highly recommend The Birth Company for all scans.
' Professional and reassuring '
Helen Campbell
The sonographer was ready as soon as I arrived, and she was extremely calming, personable and professional. The scan and blood test where efficient without feeling rushed and all very easy. These appointments can feel uneasy and make you feel anxious but I felt reassured and in professional hands the whole time
I saw Kate throughout my first pregnancy and am now doing so again with my second. She is absolutely amazing, she explains everything really clearly, and has answered all sorts of bizarre questions and worries I have had. On top of being clinically excellent she is also just the loveliest person and always a pleasure to see.
Sarah Elliott
We had the harmony test with the Birth Company and had a reassurance scan with sonographer Kirsty McGarry who was absolutely lovely and really put our minds at rest. We had been scared by our NHS dating scan and left feeling like there was something wrong. We explained the situation and was treated very professionally and with good care. Also speedy appointments also as I had phone in the morning and got an appointment by afternoon. So thankful.
Ashley and Tom
Really friendly, efficient service. Great experience overall. Had the Panorama. My appointment was with Kate who was absolutely fantastic. The results came really quickly. Have a comparison with private healthcare elsewhere and must say that The Birth Company was just how I would like to be treated when I pay for medical services - attentively, calmly, friendly, in a pleasant environment that doesn't look like hospital. Top marks!
Anna
' Efficient, friendly and always on hand to provide last minute appointments '
Anna s
The Birth Company has been excellent, providing timely scans and blood tests during my IVF treatment abroad. Staff are always friendly and extremely efficient. I would highly recommend coming here.
' Professional and friendly '
Lyndsey Dilla
When I first contacted the Birth Company I spoke to Danielle. She was fantastic. She went above & beyond to put me at easy & make the journey from Kent as stress free as possible. Every staff member that myself and my husband have come into contact with have been approachable, professional and friendly. Kate scanned me the first time and put me completely at easy. Lisa on reception is professional and very approachable. Highly recommended
' Highly recommended '
Emelie
Donald was so lovely! I was so nervous as I have a bad history and he was super quick and confirmed my baby's heartbeat as quickly as he could. He spent time showing me the baby and the anatomy and it was the best money I have ever spent! The reception girls were lovely too - considering they deal with babies day in day out they were super excited for me! Thank you so much one and all! If only I lived in London and could have all my scans with you!
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