Can Double Marker Test Be Done After 14 Weeks?
The simple answer is no, the double marker test is generally not done after 14 weeks of pregnancy. This test is designed to be performed between 9 weeks to 13 weeks and 6 days of pregnancy. After 14 weeks, this test is no longer valid or recommended, and different screening methods are used instead.
Let’s understand why the timing matters and what alternatives you have after 14 weeks.
What Is a Double Marker Test?
The double marker test is a prenatal screening blood test done in the first trimester of pregnancy.
It measures the levels of:
- Free Beta-hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin)
- PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein A)
It helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, like:
- Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
- Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18)
- Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13)
Why Is Timing Important?
- The accuracy of the double marker test depends on gestational age.
- After 14 weeks, the levels of hCG and PAPP-A change, making the results unreliable.
- Therefore, doctors recommend doing this test no later than 13 weeks and 6 days.
Can It Be Done After 14 Weeks?
No, It’s Not Recommended
- If you missed the time window for the double marker test, your doctor will suggest other tests that are appropriate for second-trimester screening.
What Are the Alternatives After 14 Weeks?
If you’re past 14 weeks, you can still undergo other tests to assess fetal health and chromosomal risks:
1. Quadruple Marker Test (Quad Screen)
- Usually done between 15 to 20 weeks of pregnancy.
- It measures:
- AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
- hCG
- Estriol
- Inhibin A
- It screens for risks of Down syndrome, neural tube defects, and other conditions.
2. NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing)
- Can be done any time after 10 weeks, even after 14 weeks.
- It is a highly accurate blood test that screens for chromosomal abnormalities.
- It analyzes the baby’s DNA fragments circulating in the mother’s blood.
3. Ultrasound Scans
- Anomaly Scan (also called the Level 2 scan) between 18-22 weeks checks for physical abnormalities in the baby.
4. Invasive Diagnostic Tests (if needed)
- Amniocentesis or Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) if screening tests indicate high risk.
What to Do If You Missed the Double Marker Test?
- Don’t panic! There are still reliable screening options after 14 weeks.
- Talk to your gynecologist or fetal medicine specialist about the best next steps for screening.
- You can opt for the Quadruple Test or NIPT, depending on your doctor’s advice and your pregnancy’s risk factors.
Conclusion
No, the double marker test cannot be done after 14 weeks of pregnancy.
It’s a first-trimester test, and after that window, doctors recommend other screening tests like the Quadruple Marker Test, NIPT, or detailed ultrasound scans to check the baby’s health.
If you’ve missed the timing, talk to your doctor about alternative screening options suitable for the second trimester.
Disclaimer:
This article provides general information and should not replace medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or fetal medicine expert for personalized recommendations based on your pregnancy timeline and health conditions.
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