The Triple Screen (or Quadruple Screen)

[sezaj90]

The triple screen is a pregnancy blood test that’s done around the 15th to 18th week. It checks for Down’s syndrome and also certain neurological defects. It’s called a triple screen because it looks for three substances in the blood: alpha-feto protein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), and unconjugated estriol. Some versions of the test also include inhibin-A, which seems to make the test for Down's syndrome more accurate. In that case, the test is called a quadruple screen.

The triple or quadruple screen does not tell you if your baby definitely has a problem. If it is positive, you may need additional tests, such as ultrasound or amniocentesis, to find out if anything is really wrong. A negative test is reassuring, but it’s not a guarantee. For example, a quadruple screen catches Down’s syndrome only about 75 to 80% of the time.

 

[magatbaby]

Thank you for the information. That helps. I have to do this screening since I am delivering just over 5 months after I turn 35.