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 risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
Screen for Down’s, Edward’s and Patau’s syndromesMore accurate than the nuchal scanResults back in 5 days on averageFull report on your NIPT resultsHigh or low risk 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 risk, 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 abnormalities. 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 3-7 days, so it is faster than the Panorama test.
You will receive a report telling you the risk of each of the conditions included in the test. For example, a low risk result for Down’s syndrome in the SAFE test means that the chance your baby is affected is less than 1 in 10,000. A high risk of Down’s syndrome would mean that the chance your baby has this condition is more than 99%.
The SAFE test can be performed at any time after 10 weeks, so we recommend scheduling it before your nuchal 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 3-7 days.The SAFE test results will tell you if your baby is at high or low risk for each of the conditions that was included in the screening.If you receive any high risk 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 £100 (£150 for evening/weekend appointments) will be charged for the appointment only. If booked online, £400 will be refunded to you.
Please note Anticoagulation therapy (blood thinners such as Clexane) 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
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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
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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.
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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
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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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