How to Get a DNA Test While Pregnant

Learn how to get a DNA test while pregnant in the US. This guide explains NIPT, carrier screening, and how to order a prenatal panel online.

Getting a DNA test while pregnant means undergoing a non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) that analyzes cell-free DNA from your blood to screen for common chromosomal conditions. In the US, this is typically offered after 10 weeks of pregnancy and can also reveal fetal sex. For a complete picture, many providers now combine NIPT with expanded carrier screening to assess your risk of passing on inherited disorders. This guide walks you through the test types, what to expect, and how to order a comprehensive prenatal screening panel online.

What Is a DNA Test During Pregnancy?

A DNA test while pregnant uses a simple blood draw to analyze fetal genetic material circulating in your bloodstream. The primary method is non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), also called cell-free DNA screening. It detects extra or missing chromosomes (aneuploidies) like Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13). NIPT can also reveal the baby's sex and, in some panels, screen for microdeletions. Because it is non-invasive, there is zero risk of miscarriage—unlike chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, which are diagnostic procedures used only when screening indicates a higher chance of a problem.

Types of Prenatal DNA Tests Available in 2026

1. Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)

NIPT is the most common first step for DNA testing in pregnancy. It is recommended for all pregnant individuals, regardless of age, and can be done as early as 9–10 weeks. The test measures the fetal fraction (percentage of fetal DNA in your blood) to ensure accuracy. Results are typically returned in 5–7 days. NIPT is a screening test, not diagnostic—a positive result should be confirmed with diagnostic testing like amniocentesis.

2. Carrier Screening

Carrier screening looks for recessive genetic conditions you might carry, such as cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), or fragile X syndrome. It is often combined with NIPT as a comprehensive prenatal screening panel. This blood test can be done before or during pregnancy and helps you understand your risk of passing on a condition to your child.

3. First-Trimester Screening vs. Integrated Screening

First-trimester screening combines a blood test and an ultrasound (nuchal translucency) to estimate risk for Down syndrome and trisomy 18. Integrated screening adds a second blood test in the second trimester for higher accuracy. However, NIPT has largely replaced these methods for DNA analysis because it directly examines fetal DNA rather than relying on biomarkers.

4. Diagnostic Tests (CVS and Amniocentesis)

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) involves taking a sample of placental tissue, usually at 10–13 weeks. Amniocentesis extracts amniotic fluid at 15–20 weeks. Both are invasive and carry a small risk of miscarriage, so they are only used when NIPT or other screenings suggest a high chance of a chromosomal abnormality, or when a genetic counselor recommends them.

How to Choose the Right DNA Test

NIPT alone if you only want screening for common trisomies and fetal sex.
NIPT + carrier screening for a broader view of your baby's genetic health and your own carrier status.
Diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis) only after a positive NIPT or if you have a known family history of a genetic disorder.
Prenatal paternity test if you need to establish biological fatherhood—this is a separate DNA test.

What to Expect When Ordering a DNA Test Online

Ordering a prenatal DNA test online in the US is straightforward. After selecting a panel, you will receive a blood draw kit or a lab requisition form. You can visit a local draw station or have a nurse come to your home. Results are typically uploaded to a secure online portal within 5–10 business days. Many providers also include a consultation with a genetic counselor to help interpret your results.

Comparison of Common Prenatal DNA Tests (2026)
Test Type	When Performed	What It Detects	Risk
NIPT (cell-free DNA)	After 10 weeks	Trisomies 21, 18, 13; sex chromosomes; optional microdeletions	None (non-invasive)
Carrier screening	Any time (even before pregnancy)	Recessive conditions (e.g., CF, SMA, fragile X)	None (blood draw)
CVS	10–13 weeks	Diagnostic for chromosomal abnormalities	Small miscarriage risk (~0.5%)
Amniocentesis	15–20 weeks	Diagnostic for chromosomal and genetic conditions	Small miscarriage risk (~0.1–0.3%)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best DNA test to get while pregnant?

The most common and reliable DNA test during pregnancy is non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), which screens for trisomy 21, 18, and 13 using cell-free fetal DNA from a maternal blood draw. It is often paired with carrier screening for a broader genetic assessment.

How do I order a prenatal DNA test online in the US?

You can order a comprehensive prenatal screening panel directly through prenatalscreenings.com. After placing an order, a blood draw kit is sent to your home or a local lab, and results are typically available within 5–10 business days.

Can a DNA test during pregnancy determine paternity?

Yes, a prenatal paternity test can be done non-invasively after 8 weeks by comparing cell-free fetal DNA with a cheek swab from the alleged father. This is separate from standard NIPT screening.

Is NIPT covered by insurance in the US?

Many US insurance plans cover NIPT for women over 35 or those with certain risk factors, but coverage varies. Self-pay options typically range from a few hundred to under a thousand dollars.

Ready to take the next step? You can order a prenatal screening panel online and get your results in as little as 5 business days—all from the comfort of your home.