What is a triple test screen?
This test is derived from AFP, but it also measures the levels of hCG and estriol in your blood. This gives you a personalized individual risk factor for Down syndrome. For instance, if you score a 2.5, that means you’re 2.5 times more likely to bear a child with Down syndrome. What is amniocentesis? Amniocentesis is a relatively safe test, usually performed between the 15th and 18th weeks of pregnancy. The test can be performed as early as 12 weeks, but there is a higher risk of complications when performed earlier. The doctor inserts a long needle into your abdomen and removes a small amount of amniotic fluid. This fluid contains dead cells from your baby and can be analyzed to yield information about your baby’s sex and chromosomes. The baby is monitored throughout the half-hour procedure with an ultrasound. When is an amniocentesis recommended?Amniocentesis has a small risk of miscarriage and infection, and it can hurt a little. Therefore, you should only take the test if: • You’re
