How accurate is NIPT for gender? 2025 testing assessed

Congratulations! You’re having a baby, and with that comes a swirl of emotions, appointments, and big milestones. Among the most anticipated? Finding out if you’re having a boy or a girl. For many expectant parents, the non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) offers not only a glimpse into baby’s health, but also the answer to the age-old question: is it a boy or a girl?

So, how accurate is a NIPT test for gender? Here’s everything you need to know.

What is an NIPT test, and how does it work?

NIPT stands for non-invasive prenatal testing. It’s a blood test that analyzes small fragments of fetal DNA circulating in the pregnant person’s blood. Initially designed to screen for chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome, NIPT is now widely used to detect fetal sex with high accuracy.

The test is usually offered from 10 weeks of pregnancy and requires a simple blood draw. Because it uses cell-free fetal DNA, it’s non-invasive and poses no risk to the baby.

How accurate is NIPT for gender?

In most cases, NIPT is more than 99% accurate when determining fetal sex – especially after the 10-week mark. Natera’s Panorama NIPT is widely used across the US, for example, and known for its reliable detection of fetal sex, with an accuracy rate above 99%. 

However, every lab may vary slightly, so always check with your provider.The test works by detecting the presence (or absence) of Y chromosomes in the blood sample:

• If Y chromosomes are detected, you’re likely having a boy.
  
• If no Y chromosomes are present, you’re likely having a girl.
  

It’s important to note that while accuracy is high, NIPT is technically a screening test – not a diagnostic one. Factors like the fetal fraction (how much fetal DNA is present in your blood), the gestational age, and even laboratory practices can impact the results.

Common questions about NIPT gender accuracy

Now, let’s break down some of the most common questions parents-to-be have about NIPT gender accuracy.

How accurate is the NIPT test for gender at 11, 12 and even 10 weeks?

Most providers recommend waiting until 10 weeks for optimal accuracy. At this point, there’s typically enough fetal DNA in the bloodstream to deliver highly reliable results. Studies suggest over 99% accuracy from 10 weeks onward.

By 11 weeks, the fetal fraction continues to increase, which means accuracy remains high – still hovering above 99%. Jumping to 12 weeks, results are generally as accurate as they get. Accuracy at this point is often considered on par with second-trimester ultrasounds.

How accurate is the NIPT blood test for gender overall?

Overall, NIPT is among the most accurate non-invasive methods for determining fetal sex. According to this study, the accuracy can exceed 99%, particularly in singleton pregnancies.

Early gender curiosity? For at-home results, try SneakPeek

Can’t wait until 10 weeks? We get it. That’s where the SneakPeek Early Gender Test comes in. SneakPeek uses a similar principle – detecting Y chromosomes in a small blood sample – and can be done as early as 6 weeks from the comfort of your home.

Want to learn more? Head to SneakPeek and take the first step in discovering your baby’s gender today.

A note on genetic testing and NIPT

NIPT is just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to understanding your baby’s health. For a broader view on genetic testing before pregnancy, including options beyond NIPT, check out our guide on genetic testing before pregnancy, straight from the expert team at FiND Genetics.

FiND Genetics connects patients with experienced genetic counselors who take the time to explain testing options, results and next steps – from before TTC to right through to pregnancy.

Final thoughts

Whether you’re 6 weeks or 12 weeks pregnant, the excitement of learning your baby’s gender never gets old. While NIPT is highly accurate – especially after 10 weeks – options like SneakPeek can give you a head start on the celebration.

However you choose to find out, we’re cheering you on. Here’s to knowing – and celebrating – the first of many magical moments to come.