Why is this procedure done?
Alpha fetoprotein is a substance made by the baby of a pregnant woman. It is also called AFP. This protein combines with the mothers blood. Your doctor may order this test: ‚
- At the beginning of your second trimester, when you are about 15 weeks pregnant
- To screen your baby for any problems during pregnancy
- Along with other tests to check if there is any risk of problems with your baby
View OriginalView Original
What will the results be?
- High levels of AFP may show an illness in the baby called neural tube defect. It may also indicate that the mother is overdue or carrying twins.
- Low levels of AFP may indicate genetic defects such as a high risk of Down syndrome or Trisomy 18. It may also indicate a response to treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
There are no special things to do before the test. ‚
What happens during the procedure?
It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The lab will test your blood for AFP levels. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test. ‚
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your AFP level. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/triple-screen/tab/sample ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
Copyright
Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚