When can the second trimester AFP/free beta hCG screen be performed?
What is involved in the second trimester AFP/freeBeta screen? Will the screening test tell me for certain if my baby has a birth defect? What if my screening test shows an increased risk? What if my screening test does not show an increased risk? Who is a good candidate for the second trimester AFP/freeBeta screening? What if I will be 35 years or over at the time of delivery? What is the first trimester screen? The first trimester screening is a combination of a maternal blood test and a special ultrasound which identifies fetuses at increased risk for certain conditions like Down syndrome and Trisomy 18. The blood test measures 2 proteins- free beta hCG and PAPP-A. The ultrasound measures fluid accumulation on the baby’s neck, called nuchal translucency (NT). This test is safe for you and your baby. What is Down syndrome and Trisomy 18? Down syndrome and Trisomy 18 are both chromosomal disorders that result from having an extra chromosome in each cell. The extra chromosome causes bir
