Maternal screening
Also known as: Triple screen; AFP maternal
Formal name: Maternal screening
At a Glance
Why Get Tested?
For a pregnant mother to assess the chance of her baby being born with an abnormality such as Down syndrome or spina bifida.
When to Get Tested?
Screening is available for Down syndrome in most centres from the 10th week of pregnancy (first trimester screening 10 weeks to 13 weeks 6 days). If the first trimester screen is not available, second trimester screening can be performed from the 15th week (second trimester screening available from 15 weeks to 22 weeks 6 days).
Sample Required?
A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm. For the first trimester sceening, the results from the laboratory may be combined with the results from an ultrasound scan to improve the overall effectiveness of the screening test.
Test Preparation Needed?
You may be instructed to have a full bladder when having the nuchal translucency ultrasound test performed.
