Why should I take the test?💡

An alpha - fetoprotein (AFP) test is administered to mainly measure the level of alpha - fetoprotein in the blood of a pregnant mom. AFP is a protein made in the liver of a developing baby. Normally, some AFP passes from the baby into the mom's blood and is used as a marker to determine the baby's risk of birth defects and genetic disorders. 

How is the test done?💉

AFP test is administered in a hospital, clinic, doctor's office or lab. The test is routinely offered between the 15th and 20th week of pregnancy. A healthcare provider will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. Your blood is collected into a test tube or vial and sent to a laboratory for analysis. 

TMI from Baby Billy👩‍⚕️:

Who should have the AFP test?

If you are over 35 years of age, or have a family history of birth defects or genetic disorders, you are highly recommended to take the test. If you have diabetes or have used any medications that could harm the baby, the test is for you to estimate any potential risks for your little one. 

Risks of the procedure

There is very little risk to you and your baby with an AFP blood test. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the site of injection, but most symptoms will go away quickly.

Results of the test

Your abnormal level of AFP can be a sign that the baby has a high risk of having a genetic disorder, such as a neural tube defect or Down's syndrome. The most common reason for abnormal AFP levels is that your estimated due date is wrong, meaning your baby is due earlier or later than estimated. 

If your AFP is lower than normal, your baby may have a genetic disorder. Your elevated AFP signifies either you have more than one baby or your little one has an increased risk of having a neural tube defect, such as spina bifida or anencephaly. 

The result of the test is not definitive and infallible. Your provider may also recommend a test called prenatal cell-free DNA (cfDNA) screening after reading your result.