Today we are talking about your baby...
Dr. W. Marc Boyd, Jr., M.D. D.O. FACOG explains what an abnormal quad marker test is all about. It is important to understand that a quad marker is a simple screening test to check if there are any abnormalities in your baby.
The screening is looking for two abnormalities: Spina bifida and genetic abnormalities.
You will have your blood drawn with a simple blood test. The results with either be ‘normal’ or ‘abnormal’.
‘Abnormal’ does not necessarily mean your baby has an abnormality. Remember, this is a screening test.
If 1000 women have the quad marker screening performed, 50 women will have ‘abnormal’ result.
You will be referred to a high-risk specialist (a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Doctor a.k.a. Perinatologist). He will perform a sonogram (ultrasound), and he will obtain an amniocentesis to test for abnormalities in your baby.
More statistics to ease your anxiety: 50 women/babies have the abnormal quad marker screening. Out of those 50 women/babies, only 1 – 2 babies will have spina bifida, and only 1 – 2 babies will have a genetic abnormality like Trisomy 13 (Patau Syndrome), Trisomy 18 (Edward’s Syndrome), or Trisomy 21 (Down Syndrome).
Let me remind you that if you get the call that your screening is ‘abnormal’, only 1 – 2 babies out of 1,000 will have spina bifida, and only 1 – 2 babies out of 1,000 will have a genetic abnormality.
Continue to talk to your family and friends about your concerns. Talk to your healthcare provider. And get the tools you need to have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.
Download the FREE Natural Birth Workbook! This 4 Step Process is a great start if you are considering a med-free birth. Click the button below to download the workbook…
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