As your first trimester ends, you might start to wonder what color hair your unborn child will have. Do they resemble you or your partner more? While the answers to these questions won’t be known for some time, your gynecologist could suggest testing or screenings find out about your developing child, including their gender. The double marker test is one diagnostic method that includes blood tests to check for indicators of specific chromosomal abnormalities.
Here are some details about the test’s administration, screening criteria, and what to anticipate from the results.
What Does A Dual Marker Test Entail?
A more thorough first-trimester screening procedure includes the double marker test, also known as maternal serum screening. This test is not conclusive and is categorized as a predictive test, indicating that its outcomes indicate the possibility of chromosomal abnormalities.
Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and free beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin (beta-hCG) are screened explicitly for this test. There will typically be either 22 pairs of XX chromosomes in female fetuses or 22 pairs of XY chromosomes in male fetuses throughout a pregnancy.
A chromosomal disorder known as a trisomy occurs when there are additional chromosomes. These chromosomal anomalies can cause hCG and PAPP-A levels to be either higher or lower than normal. A Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan, an ultrasound that looks at the transparent tissue at the back of your baby’s neck, is combined with the blood test.
Results For The Dual Marker Test
You should discuss your results with a genetic medical counselor to learn more if your screening results are moderate- or high-risk (“screen-positive” for abnormalities). More stringent and occasionally more intrusive procedures, like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sample, might be used to validate your findings.
Because the double marker test is performed early in your pregnancy, you have plenty of time to consider the results before deciding on additional testing and medical interventions.
How Does the Test Take Place?
Simple blood testing is used for the double marker test. Your doctor will give you a prescription to take this test in a lab. You can eat and drink before you visit the lab unless otherwise told because it is a non-fasting test. Generally speaking, it takes 3 days to 1 week to get the results.
Does the dual marker test carry any risks?
The double marker test has no dangers attached to it. This blood test is regular and non-intrusive. Follow your doctor’s advice and speak with your physician if you have any questions.
Conclusion
If you are unclear about whether you should take this test or not, start by weighing the advantages and disadvantages of the double marker test and first-trimester screening. Consider how this knowledge could influence your decision to undergo more tests and how you want your pregnancy to be managed.
Discuss this test’s value in light of your particular circumstances with your healthcare practitioner. Whatever you decide, consulting your doctor regularly is essential for a safe pregnancy.
