Also referred to as the Triple Test, Multiple Marker Screening, and Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) Plus, the triple marker screening test is a maternal blood test that identifies three specific substances: AFP, hCG, and Estriol.
- AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein): This is a protein produced by the fetus.
- hCG (human Chorionic Gonadotropin): This hormone is produced by the placenta.
- Estriol: An estrogen generated by both the fetus and the placenta.
This non-invasive procedure is conducted via a blood test, which poses minimal to no risk to the mother or the developing baby.
What is a Screening Test?
It’s crucial to understand the nature of a screening test before undergoing one. This can help alleviate the anxiety that often accompanies test results. Screening tests don’t solely evaluate blood test results; they also consider various factors (like age, ethnicity, previous blood test outcomes, etc.) to estimate the likelihood of a potential abnormality. Importantly, these tests do NOT diagnose conditions; they merely indicate the need for further examination.
How is the Triple Marker Screening Test Conducted?
The triple marker screening involves drawing blood from the mother, a process that typically takes 5 to 10 minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis, with results usually available within a few days.
Risks and Side Effects for Mother or Baby
Aside from potential discomfort from the blood draw, there are no known risks or side effects linked to the triple marker screening.
When is the Triple Marker Screening Test Done?
Generally, the triple marker screening is performed between the 15th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, with the most accurate results reported during weeks 16 to 18. Every pregnant woman should be offered this test, but it is particularly recommended for those who:
- Have a family history of congenital defects
- Are 35 years old or older
- Have used medications or substances that may harm the pregnancy
- Have diabetes and require insulin
- Experienced viral infections during pregnancy
- Have been exposed to elevated levels of radiation
What Does the Triple Marker Screening Test Look For?
The test measures the levels of AFP, hCG, and Estriol, comparing them against the mother’s age, weight, ethnicity, and gestational age to evaluate the risk of genetic disorders. Elevated AFP levels can indicate a neural tube defect, while low AFP and abnormal hCG or Estriol levels might suggest conditions like trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) or trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome).
Despite its primary purpose of identifying genetic disorders, the triple marker test can also help detect:
- Multiple pregnancies
- Gestational ages that differ from initial estimates
What Do the Results of the Triple Marker Screening Test Mean?
It’s vital to remember that this test is a screening tool, not a diagnostic one. It indicates a potential risk that a mother might carry a child with a genetic disorder. The triple marker screening is known for yielding a high rate of false positives. Abnormal results warrant further testing for an accurate diagnosis. A more conservative approach includes conducting a second triple marker screening, followed by a detailed ultrasound. If the results remain abnormal, more invasive procedures like amniocentesis may be considered. Discussions regarding invasive testing should be thorough and involve healthcare providers, partners, and possibly counselors or social workers.
Why Pursue Further Testing?
Since the triple marker screening is a routine, non-invasive examination that involves no risk to the mother or child, abnormal results often justify additional testing. The motivations for further testing can vary widely among individuals and couples. Additional tests can confirm diagnoses and provide opportunities for:
- Exploring potential interventions (e.g., fetal surgery for spina bifida)
- Planning for a child with special needs
- Adjusting lifestyle changes
- Identifying support groups and resources
- Making informed decisions about the pregnancy
Some individuals or couples might choose to forgo further testing for various reasons:
- They feel comfortable with the initial results regardless of outcome
- Personal, moral, or religious beliefs may preclude decisions about continuing the pregnancy
- Some parents may opt out of any tests that pose risks to the developing baby
Discussing these risks and choices is important to ensure informed decision-making.
For more information on your baby’s expected arrival date, check out our post at Your Baby’s Expected Arrival Date and for resources on pregnancy and home insemination, visit CDC’s Pregnancy Resource. If you’re considering home insemination, you might want to explore Make a Mom for their reusable option or Vegas Pregnancy for sperm donor matching in Las Vegas. The insights on Modern Family Blog also provide valuable information on this topic.
Summary
The triple marker screening test is a non-invasive blood test that evaluates potential risks of genetic disorders in the fetus based on maternal blood markers. Understanding its purpose, process, and implications is essential for expecting parents. While abnormal results can cause concern, they often lead to further testing that can help in planning and decision-making for the pregnancy.