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What is the Triple Marker Test in Pregnancy

What is the Triple Marker Test in Pregnancy

In this article we’ll get to know about the triple marker test in pregnancy in detail.

What is a triple marker test ?

The Triple Marker Test is a prenatal screening test designed to measure the amounts of three key components in a pregnant woman's blood

Measuring these levels during this time is not necessary however it is highly recommended to check for any chromosomal abnormalities in an infant as early diagnosis is always better and allows for better management.

Now let's understand each marker in detail

Alpha Fetoprotein (AFP) : During pregnancy, AFP levels are produced by the foetal liver, yolk sac, and gastrointestinal system and are essential for the healthy growth of the foetus. Maternal blood AFP levels, which are measured as part of the Triple Screening Test, aid in the screening process for neural tube abnormalities that impact the development of the brain and spinal cord.Maternal AFP serum level is used to screen for Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and other chromosomal abnormalities.

Human chorionic gonadotropin( hCG) : The hormone known as hCG, which is produced by the placenta during pregnancy, is a marker for pregnancy tests and helps during the early stages of pregnancy,It signals the body to stop menstruation and aids in thickening the uterine lining to assist a developing embryo. Once a pregnancy is conceived, HCG levels rise and stay elevated for another 10 weeks. Usually, chromosomal disorders like Down syndrome or trisomy 18 are linked to aberrant hCG levels. Down syndrome is indicated by high levels, while trisomy 18 is indicated by lower-than-normal levels.

Estriol unconjugated serum  (UE3) : UE3 is a type of oestrogen which is produced during pregnancy by both the placenta and the foetus. It evaluates the likelihood of neural tube malformations and certain chromosomal abnormalities.

Triple marker tests are generally performed 15th - 20th weeks in pregnancy. This test helps in the assessment of child birth defects , other than triple marker tests

Why I need to get triple marker test done

  • Maternal ages over 35 is often associated with an increased chance of chromosomal abnormalities in an offspring. Therefore we advised them to take this test in order to evaluate their risks and take the necessary action.
  • If in first pregnancy also you had a baby with similar abnormalities then you may be at high risk, you should get triple marker  test done to rule out the risk of birth defects early
  • Pregantwomen  who have a family history of birth defects should always take this test to identify the risk of genetic defects in a child
  • If ultrasound reports are not good then your doctor will recommend you to get this test done.

Conclusion 

Pregnancy is not just great news, it comes with greater responsibilities , and to enjoy your pregnancy phase you should regularly monitor your health and your child's health, if you think that your baby is at high risk of developing chromosomal disorders then you should get this test done.

Choose ganesh diagnostic centre for your pregnancy

We understand the value of accuracy of test results. This is why we bring you the 100% accurate result and convenience at your doorstep. We provide free home sample collection services so book your test now at affordable range only with ganesh diagnostic centre

Other test available at ganesh diagnostic centre for your healthy pregnancy

Frequently asked questions

What is triple marker test

Triple marker test is a prenatal test which is done to find the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the developing baby

What is the cost of triple marker test in delhi

The cost of triple marker test in delhi at ganesh diagnostic centre  is Rs 2400 only

What after care is required for triple marker test

No, after care is required for triple marker test

What is the full form of AFP blood test

AFP  stands for Alpha Fetoprotein

What is the full form of HCG 

HCG stand for Human chorionic gonadotropin

Who is a high risk of giving birth to a child with chromosomal abnormality

Women who have a family history of child birth defects are at high risk of giving birth to hai child with foetal abnormalities

Which test helps in diagnosing the down’s syndrome

Triple marker test helps in diagnosis the down’s syndrome however other confirmatory test is also done.