QNatal Advanced
Prenatal screening that should not be performed before 10 weeks gestational age. This test is not diagnostic; positive or increased-risk results require appropriate clinical follow-up and diagnostic evaluation.
About this test
Cell-free DNA screening uses a maternal blood sample to estimate the chance of selected chromosome conditions in a pregnancy.
Common reasons for testing
- Optional prenatal chromosome screening after counseling about the benefits, limits, and alternatives.
These are examples of clinical uses. Your history and symptoms determine whether testing is appropriate.
What to expect
A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a brief pinch and have mild bruising. Tell the person collecting your sample if you have fainted with needles or take a blood thinner; keep pressure on the site afterward.
Appointment length
Your visit is expected to take about 15 minutes at our West Ashley location.
Categories
Preparation
- Do not collect before 10 weeks of pregnancy. Confirm dating and eligibility with your obstetric clinician.
- Tell the team about twins, a vanished twin, donor eggs, and relevant prior pregnancy testing. No fasting is usually needed.
- Bring a list of medicines and supplements, including biotin, vitamins, and hormones. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines unless your clinician tells you to.
Instructions for this appointment
- Do not schedule this test before 10 weeks gestational age. QNatal Advanced is a prenatal screening test, not a diagnostic test. Positive or increased-risk results require appropriate clinical follow-up and diagnostic evaluation.
Follow the instructions confirmed for your order. If they differ from the general guidance, contact the team before changing food, fluids, or medicines.
Order requirement
No outside order needed
Understanding your results
- This is screening, not a diagnosis. A higher-chance result needs genetic counseling and discussion of diagnostic testing.
- A low-chance result does not exclude every genetic or structural condition. An unreportable result also needs follow-up.
What happens next?
Review results with your obstetric clinician or genetic counselor. Do not make irreversible pregnancy decisions based on a screening result alone.
Sources & further reading
This patient summary draws on published clinical literature and professional guidance. Patient resources are identified separately below. Preparation also depends on your specific order and the collecting laboratory or imaging team.
- SMFM Consult Series 74: Cell-free DNA screening for aneuploidies, updated guidance
Pregnancy, 2025
- QNatal Advanced: Test-specific questions and collection timing
Quest Diagnostics (laboratory instructions)
Content updated October 11, 2026. General education; individual advice comes from your care team.
Know the cost before your visit
Palmetto Preventive is a direct-pay service. You will see clear payment terms before your booking is finalized — no surprise lab bill.
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If testing is not approved, your payment is refunded in full.
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