AFP Testing
What is AFP?
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a protein made by your baby as he or she grows. During pregnancy, AFP is found in the amniotic fluid and in small amounts in the mother's blood stream. In some women there may be more or less AFP. This does NOT always mean there is a problem with the baby, but it does mean you may want to have more testing done. AFP testing consists of a simple blood test. This test is done between your 15-20 weeks of pregnancy.
Reasons for increased AFP:
Being further along in pregnancy than initially thought.
Being pregnant with more than one baby.
The presence of a neural tube defect.
What are Neural Tube Defects?
Neural Tube Defects (NTD) are birth defects in which the baby's brain or part of the spine does not form normally. The two major types are anencephaly and spina bifida. Anencephaly is when the brain and head don't develop normally. Spina bifida is when the spine does not close correctly. This effect can be mild to severe. Problems with the baby can range from no problems to paralysis of the legs and mental retardation. With advances in medicine this problem can be surgically corrected in some cases.
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a problem with the chromosomes. Children born with this disorder are usually mentally retarded and may have other birth defects such as digestive problems.
Should I have this test done?
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists mandates that this screening should be offered to all pregnant women. If you're not sure what to do, discuss having this test with your physician or nurse.
What do the results mean?
Normal test results do not guarantee that your baby will be healthy. Abnormal results do not mean that your baby is unhealthy. Abnormal results simply mean that further testing should be performed. If your results are abnormal, you will be sent to Columbus for another ultrasound. If the ultrasound doesn't show anything, an amniocentesis may be done.
Amniocentesis
Amniocentesis is when a sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding your baby is taken and analyzed. The physician will use a needle to get some of the fluid out from your abdomen and send it to the lab for testing. The results can take a couple of weeks. There are risks with this test which include: cramping, bleeding, infection, leaking of amniotic fluid, and a small risk of miscarriage (1%). You should discuss the risks and benefits of this test with your doctor if the test is recommended.