What is the Maternal Serum Screen?
The Maternal Serum Screen is a blood test that is offered to all pregnant women in Manitoba. The test measures three components in the mother’s blood. The test checks for certain problems in the baby and in the pregnancy. An abnormal result does NOT necessarily mean there is a problem with the baby. It simply means that other tests may be suggested. A normal test result is good news, but cannot guarantee that the baby will be normal. This is a voluntary test. Some women wish to have the test. Some women would rather not have the test. You should discuss this with your doctor. The choice whether or not to have the test is entirely up to you. WHAT DOES THIS TEST MEASURE? The test measures three components: AFP (alpha-fetoprotein), hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and estriol. These are made by the baby or placenta and can be found in the mother’s blood. Two results are given; one for AFP alone and one for all three together. (This is called a triple test). This is a screening test. It
