What is a triple marker test?

This is a very useful method to know genetic defects in the babies before their birth.

There are various tests that you need to undergo during your pregnancy. Triple marker is one of them; here is what you need to know regarding this important yet simple blood test.

What is this test about?

Triple marker test is a simple blood test which helps to detect if the unborn child is at any risk of developing a genetic disorder or the presence of other anomalies. This test records the levels of some markers present in blood, namely, AFP (alpha-fetoprotein), HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and estriol. Erroneous levels of these three markers are often linked to the presence of congenital anomalies in the fetus. This test can be done successfully in clinics, hospitals and in diagnostic centres and the results should be discussed with your gynecologist.

What is the significance of this test?

There is no way one can predict a genetic defect or an anomaly in the fetus. Hence doing a triple marker test can be one of the many ways to detect an anomaly or congenital defect in the fetus, before birth. This will help the expecting parents to make a proper decision regarding the birth of their child. Some of the disorders which can be detected by the triple marker test include Down's syndrome, Edward's syndrome and neural tube defect. This test has also been effective to assess complications within the mother due to the progress of multiple infants inside the womb.

When should this test be done?

In order to undergo this test no prior precautions are needed to be taken. This test can be done at any time of the day between the 14^th and 18^th weeks of pregnancy. For better analysis, the results of this test are taken into consideration along with the sonography reports of your anomaly scan which is usually done during the start of your second trimester.

Who is advised to go in for this test?

Often the doctor advises the would-be-mother to undergo this test if he suspects any abnormality in the baby.

Are there any risks?

There is absolutely no risk involved in this test. One can easily get this test done by a trained pathologist.

Image source- Getty images

You may also like to read:

• Pregnancy-tests-you-need-to-be-aware-of/
  
• Is you baby at the risk of Down's syndrome
• Ultrasound during pregnancy

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