Sonic Harmony Test for Prenatal Women – Orange, Bathurst & Parkes

What is a Sonic Genetics NIPT (non-invasive prenatal test)?

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Unfortunately, birth defects can occur in newborns. Approximately 6 out of 10 people will be affected by a condition that has a genetic background.

This includes defects such as spina bifida, cleft lip or palate, and congenital heart defects. Many of these conditions can be caused by genetic factors, and sonic genetics may provide insight into the causes of these conditions.

At Lotus Medics, we offer our expectant moms and dads peace of mind with a safe, non-invasive Sonic harmony test at our Orange, Parkes and Bathurst clinics. Read here for more information.

Sonic Genetics NIPT is a non-invasive method of evaluating the risk of certain chromosome disorders in a developing foetus by analysing and measuring the proportions of DNA fragments in the mother’s plasma.

These fragments come from both maternal and foetal placental cells and can be used to detect disorders related to specific chromosomes or chromosome regions.

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A pelvic floor disorder is a result of weakened or damaged pelvic muscles, which cause several uncomfortable symptoms.

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What does the NIPT test screen for?

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Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a screening test used to assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities in a developing baby. This test checks for the most common chromosomal abnormalities, such as:

  • Down syndrome (trisomy 21)
  • Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18)
  • Patau syndrome (trisomy 13)
  • Disorders affecting sex chromosomes (X and Y)

 

It also checks for foetal sex chromosome abnormalities, such as Turner syndrome, Klinefelter syndrome, triple X syndrome and XYY syndrome.

What are the limitations
of the NIPT Test?

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The NIPT has many benefits however there are some limitations which include: 

  • It cannot detect all birth defects and genetic abnormalities. NIPT is very specific about the chromosomes it is screening for. Patients who carry a chromosomal abnormality or have had a transplant or stem cell therapy are unsuitable for NIPT.
  • It is not 100% accurate and can give false positives or negatives.
  • It cannot detect neural tube defects like spina bifida.
  • It cannot detect all inherited disorders.
  • It cannot detect all genetic disorders caused by a single gene.
  • It cannot detect all genetic disorders caused by a combination of genes.
  • Diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis) is recommended following a positive result.
  • Medicare does not cover any of the costs of the NIPT.
  • Occasionally there is no result with NIPT screening, despite a redraw of maternal blood for analysis.
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When should the NIPT test be done during pregnancy?

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The NIPT, or Non-Invasive Prenatal Test, is usually performed between 10 and 13 weeks of pregnancy. There’s typically not enough foetal DNA in a pregnant person’s blood before 10 weeks of pregnancy for accurate results to be produced.
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Menopause can also contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, as the decline in estrogen levels can cause the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor to weaken.

Are there any risks to the NIPT test?

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The NIPT test is considered safe and non-invasive, meaning there are no known risks associated with it. However, as with any medical test, there is always a slight chance of a false-positive or false-negative result. 

If you receive an unexpected result from the NIPT test, your doctor may recommend additional tests to confirm the diagnosis.

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Lotus Medics offer NIPT pregnancy tests at our Orange, Parkes and Bathurst practices.

What Is The Success Rate Of A NIPT Test?

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A NIPT has a high success rate, with rates ranging from 86-99% depending on the type of chromosomal abnormality being tested for. 

Studies have reported detection rates of foetal trisomy 21 of greater than 99% and foetal trisomy 18 and 13 of greater than 95%.

A NIPT is highly accurate and reliable, making it an important tool for prenatal screening and diagnosis.

How is a NIPT test performed?

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A Non-Invasive Prenatal Test (NIPT) is usually performed by collecting a sample of the mother’s blood. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analysed for specific foetal DNA markers. The test looks for pieces of the baby’s DNA released into the mother’s bloodstream. Results are typically available within seven to ten days.

What do the results
of the NIPT test mean?

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It is important to note that a NIPT is a screening test, not a diagnostic test, so it cannot tell you with 100% certainty that your baby does or does not have a chromosomal condition. Suppose the NIPT results show that your baby is at an increased risk.

In that case, your doctor may recommend additional testing, such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis, to determine if your baby does have one of these conditions.

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Sonic Genetics NIPT testing costs in Orange, Bathurst, and Parkes

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Sonic Genetics NIPT costs at our Orange, Parkes and Bathurst practices will include: 

The cost of the consultation with Lotus Medics. The cost of the NIPT test – approximately $500.00


Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information on our pricing. You can also visit our costs page on our website for more information.

nipt harmony test
Sonic harmony test is a non-invasive method of evaluating the risk of certain chromosome disorders in a developing fetus.

How Lotus Medics can help with a NIPT harmony test

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At Lotus Medics, we understand that every person is different, each with a unique set of symptoms and causes and a unique body, and we offer a customised service to all our patients.

We have extensive experience with this condition and are committed to always putting the safety of our patients first.

Pregnancy Treatment Lotus Medics
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Dr Sachin Kotasthane has extensive experience in comprehensive care for women that may require prenatal testing.
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Meet Dr Sachin Kotasthane

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Dr Sachin Kotasthane due to his experience and training, is able to offer comprehensive care for women that require prenatal testing.

He is an experienced Obstetrician and Gynaecologist who trained in the UK and worked as a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in Glasgow. Thereafter he moved to Orange NSW and is now able to offer world-class women’s health advice, services and procedures.
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Where to find Sonic Genetics NIPT
in Orange, Parkes and Bathurst?

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We are conveniently located at the following physical locations. Please contact us to book a consultation at the practice closest to you.
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Orange

Bloomfield Medical Campus, Level 2/1521 Forest Rd, Orange NSW 2800

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Bathurst Specialist Centre

Bathurst Specialist Centre, Building 1470, Panorama Ave, Charles Sturt University, Bathurst NSW 2795

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Parkes

Ochre Health Medical Centre 335 Clarinda St, Parkes NSW 2870

Frequently Asked Questions

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If you require more information on Sonic harmony tests, please read our most frequently asked questions.
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The best time to have a NIPT test is between 10 and 13 weeks gestation of the foetus.
No, it does not. NIPT is a non-invasive prenatal test and carries no risk of miscarriage as the test entails a single blood draw from the mother for analysis.

NIPT testing can be wrong for Down syndrome. While NIPT is a very accurate screening test, it is not 100% accurate.

The accuracy of NIPT depends on the laboratory performing the test, the type of test performed, and the baby’s gestational age when the test is performed. False positives and false negatives can occur.

PLEASE NOTE: This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor. A second opinion is also encouraged.

How to schedule an appointment
with Lotus Medics

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Book your initial consultation with Lotus Medics by calling us at 1300 3LOTUS (1300 356887),
or emailing us at info@lotusmedics.com.au. You can also book online via our online form.
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