Frequently Asked Questions

How does the Early Gender Blood Test work?

During pregnancy, a small amount of your baby’s DNA circulates in your bloodstream. This test analyses a sample of your blood to check for the presence or absence of the male Y chromosome, allowing early gender determination.

Is the test safe?

Yes. This is a non invasive blood test and is safe for both mum and baby.

I have previously had a boy. Will this affect my result?

No. Foetal DNA from previous pregnancies clears naturally from the bloodstream shortly after birth.

What if I am expecting twins?

If Y chromosome DNA is detected, it confirms that at least one baby is a boy. If no Y chromosome is detected, the result indicates girls. The test cannot determine individual gender for each baby in non identical multiples.

Do hormones or conditions such as PCOS affect the results?

No. This is a DNA based test and hormone levels do not affect the outcome.

How quickly will I receive my results?

Results are typically emailed within 2 to 3 working days from the date your sample is processed.

What is the process?

• Our experienced phlebotomist will uncover your right or left arm.
• A tourniquet will be placed around your upper arm. A tourniquet makes it easier for a needle to be placed in your veins by swelling the veins.
• Once the tourniquet is fitted, a small quantity of blood will be drawn into tubes, using a needle.
• After the blood draw is completed, a plaster will be placed onto the site; this can be removed after a couple of hours.
• We will then post your sample to our partner laboratory for analysis.
• You will receive your results 2-3 working days after the sample has been sent in the post. Your results will be emailed to you.

Preparing for your blood test?

• Hydrate – Try to reduce caffeine intake and drink plenty of water before the day of your blood draw, making it easier for our phlebotomist to locate a vein for blood to be drawn from.
• Loose Clothing – Our phlebotomist will require access to your arm. Please wear loose clothing to make accessing your arm easier and more comfortable.
• Medication – Please let our phlebotomist know if you are on blood thinners on the day of your blood draw.

Frequently asked questions?

How much blood is taken?

Approximately 8 ml of blood is taken; this is placed into a special tube for transportation to the laboratory.

How long is the appointment?

The appointment is approximately 10 minuets long. Please ensure to arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork that may be outstanding.

What if I’m scared of needles?

It’s completely understandable to feel anxious about needles, but please be assured that you are in good hands. Our phlebotomist is experienced and compassionate, and they are here to support you every step of the way. Upon arrival to the clinic, please communicate your concerns to our phlebotomist who will take extra care when carrying out the blood draw.

What if you can’t get a blood sample on the day?

Occasionally, we may encounter difficulty in obtaining a blood sample from you. There can be various reasons for this, including insufficient hydration, feeling cold, or having undergone another blood test recently.  We’ll always offer you another appointment so that we can make another attempt at obtaining the sample.

Finding Hey Baby 4D Northampton

Hey Baby 4D Northampton is a 25 minute walk or a 10 minute drive from the Town Centre and is accessible by public transport.

If you’re travelling by car, leave at junction 15 of the M1 and follow the A45 until you reach the A428. We are located 3 minutes away from Northampton General Hospital. If you’re travelling by bus from Northampton town centre, the number 5 Southfields stops on Alfred Street, which is a 6-minute walk from the clinic.