Double Marker Test: Why It’s Important During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting journey filled with anticipation, joy, and worries. Every parent wants to ensure the well-being of their baby, and an essential step in prenatal care is to undergo screening tests. Among these, the double marker test plays a vital role in detecting potential genetic abnormalities in the fetus.

What Is a Double Marker Test?

The double marker test is a blood test that helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and Patau syndrome in the unborn baby. It measures two key substances in the mother's blood:

• Free Beta hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin): A hormone produced by the placenta. Abnormal levels may indicate a higher risk of chromosomal disorders.
• PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A): A protein produced by the placenta, which, when present in abnormal levels, may signal potential genetic conditions.

Doctors often recommend this test between the 9th and 14th weeks of pregnancy, ideally between the 11th and 13th weeks, for more accurate results.

Why Is It Important?

Early screening tests like the double marker test in Lucknow are very important because they provide important information about the baby's health. Although the test itself does not diagnose genetic conditions, it helps doctors determine if further testing, such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS), is necessary.

Who Should Get the Double Marker Test?

Not every pregnant woman is required to take this test. However, doctors strongly recommend it for those who:

• Are above the age of 35 (as the risk of chromosomal abnormalities increases with age)
• Have a family history of genetic disorders
• Have had previous pregnancies with chromosomal abnormalities
• Are undergoing assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF

A Real-Life Story: Why Screening Matters

When 36-year-old pregnant Anita from Lucknow found out that she was pregnant, she was overjoyed. Given her age, her doctor recommended a double marker test in Lucknow. Though she was initially hesitant, she decided to go ahead. When her test results showed an increased risk of Down syndrome, her doctor asked her to undergo additional tests to confirm. Thankfully, her baby was healthy, but the experience gave her peace of mind and allowed her to prepare for any possibility.

How Is the Test Done?

This procedure is simple and non-invasive. A small blood sample is taken from the mother's arm, and the results are usually available within a week. Along with this blood test, an ultrasound (NT scan) is often done to assess the thickness of the baby's neck, which further helps in risk assessment.

What Do the Results Mean?

The results are given as a ratio, indicating the probability of chromosomal abnormalities. A low-risk result means that the chance of a genetic disorder is minimal, while a high-risk result suggests a greater probability. However, a high-risk result does not confirm the abnormality but only indicates the need for further testing.

What Happens After the Test?

If your results show a low risk, no further action is needed except for routine prenatal care. If the results indicate a high risk, your doctor may suggest further diagnostic tests like:

• NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test): A more advanced blood test with higher accuracy.
• Amniocentesis: A test where a small amount of amniotic fluid is taken for analysis.
• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): A sample of the placenta is taken to examine genetic conditions.

Practical Tips for Expecting Mothers

1. Don’t Panic: A high-risk result doesn’t mean your baby has a genetic disorder. It simply indicates the need for further tests.
2. Consult Your Doctor: Discuss your results with a trusted healthcare professional to understand the next steps.
3. Stay Positive: Stress can affect your pregnancy. Surround yourself with a support system and focus on a healthy lifestyle.
4. Educate Yourself: Learn about prenatal screening and diagnostic tests to make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

Prenatal care means ensuring the best for your baby, and the double marker test is an important part of that journey. If you are pregnant, consider talking to your doctor about this screening to stay informed and prepared. Remember, early detection can make a huge difference in planning the healthiest future possible for your little one.