Pregnancy is a profound experience full of joy and responsibility. Maternal screening tests are critical for prenatal treatment since they provide important information about the fetus’s health and detect any issues early. This article describes the different types and relevance of maternal screening tests so you know what to expect throughout pregnancy.
Importance of Maternal Screening Tests
Maternal screening tests are necessary for:
Every pregnancy journey is unique and full of joy and excitement. Ensuring the baby’s healthy development and early detection of hazards is critical. The Double Marker Test, performed during the first trimester, is crucial in determining the risk of chromosomal abnormalities.
What is the Double Marker Test?
The Double Marker Test is a blood test performed between weeks 11 and 13 plus 6 days of pregnancy. It is frequently paired with a Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan to determine the risk of fetal chromosomal abnormalities.
Components of the Double Marker Test:
Purpose: These markers, along with the NT scan, help determine the risk of disorders, including Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (trisomy 13).
Procedure & Report Time: 2-3 ml blood sample is collected from the mother’s arm for the Double Marker test. During the procedure, relevant maternity details are documented. The sample is then processed in our advanced laboratory. The Double Marker test results are typically available within 2-3 working days, providing crucial insights for your prenatal care.
The first trimester Quadruple Marker Test is a crucial prenatal screening conducted early in pregnancy. Typically done between 12 weeks to 13 weeks and 6 days, this test helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and neural tube defects in the developing fetus. By providing valuable early information about the baby’s health, it allows expecting parents and healthcare providers to make informed decisions about further testing and care.
Why is the Quadruple Marker Test Done?
The primary reasons for conducting the Quadruple Marker Test are:
Procedure:
A 2-3 ml blood sample is drawn from the mother’s arm.
Report Time:
What is it?
The Quadruple Marker Test (or quad screen) is a second-trimester prenatal screening that determines the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and neural tube defects.
Why is it done?
The purpose of this test is to identify potential risks for Down syndrome, Edward syndrome, Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13), and neural tube problems such as spina bifida.
How it is done and its components:
Procedure:
A 2-3 ml blood sample is drawn from the mother’s arm.
Report Time:
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| Prenatal Screening Test | When it is done (Gestational age) | Components |
| Double Marker Test + NT (Nuchal Translucency) scan | 12 weeks to 13 weeks + 6 days (First trimester pregnancy) |
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| First Trimester Quadruple Marker Test | 12 weeks to 13 weeks + 6 days (First trimester pregnancy) |
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| Quadruple Marker Test | 15 to 20 weeks + 6 days (First trimester pregnancy) |
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A marker test in pregnancy is a blood screening test that measures specific substances (markers) in the mother’s blood to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities and neural tube defects in the fetus. It helps identify conditions like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and spina bifida at an early stage.
The Double Marker Test is done in the first trimester (11–13+6 weeks) and measures Free β-hCG and PAPP-A, usually combined with an NT scan.
The Quadruple Marker Test is done in the second trimester (15–20+6 weeks) and measures AFP, hCG, uE3, and Inhibin A. Both are screening tests but performed at different stages of pregnancy.
The Double Marker Test should be done between 11 weeks to 13 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. For best accuracy, it is recommended along with a Nuchal Translucency (NT) scan.
No, the Double Marker Test is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended as part of first-trimester prenatal screening. It helps assess the baby’s risk for chromosomal abnormalities and provides reassurance to expecting parents.
The Quadruple Marker Test screens for:
Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18)
Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13)
Neural tube defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly
No, marker tests are screening tests, not diagnostic tests. They indicate risk levels, not a definite diagnosis. If a high-risk result is detected, your doctor may suggest confirmatory tests like NIPT, amniocentesis, or CVS.
Yes, the Quadruple Marker Test is completely safe. It involves only a simple blood sample from the mother and poses no risk to the fetus.
A high-risk result does not mean the baby definitely has a problem. It only indicates an increased probability. Further diagnostic tests may be recommended to confirm or rule out any condition.
Double Marker Test: 2–3 working days
First Trimester Quadruple Marker Test: Up to 7 working days
Second Trimester Quadruple Marker Test: 3–5 working days
Timely reporting helps in early decision-making during pregnancy.
You can get accurate and reliable pregnancy marker tests at add-on Scans & Labs, using advanced technology and expert supervision. Our team ensures safe sample collection, precise reporting, and complete confidentiality.
Call or WhatsApp: +91-9900811118
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