Pregnancy is a joyful journey, but it also comes with responsibilities to ensure both the mother and baby are healthy. Among several prenatal screenings, the Double Marker Test plays a key role in identifying potential chromosomal abnormalities in the unborn child.
This test, typically recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy, provides valuable insights into the baby’s genetic health and helps parents make informed decisions.
What is the Double Marker Test?
The Double Marker Test is a prenatal blood test that measures two key biochemical markers in the mother’s blood:
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Free Beta-hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) – A hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy.
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PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein-A) – A protein produced by the placenta that supports fetal development.
The levels of these markers help doctors evaluate the risk of chromosomal abnormalities such as:
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Down Syndrome (Trisomy 21)
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Trisomy 18 (Edwards Syndrome)
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Trisomy 13 (Patau Syndrome)
The test does not diagnose these conditions but classifies the pregnancy as high-risk or low-risk, guiding further diagnostic steps if required.
When is the Double Marker Test Done?
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Ideal Time: Between 11 to 14 weeks of pregnancy
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Best Accuracy: When combined with an NT (Nuchal Translucency) Scan, which measures the thickness of fluid at the back of the baby’s neck
Doctors recommend it especially for:
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Women above 35 years
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Pregnancies achieved through IVF or assisted methods
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Cases with a family history of genetic disorders
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Mothers with previous complicated pregnancies
Normal Range of the Double Marker Test
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Free Beta-hCG:
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High levels may indicate higher risk of Down syndrome.
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Low levels may indicate risk of Trisomy 18 or Trisomy 13.
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PAPP-A:
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Low levels are linked with higher risk of chromosomal defects.
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Results are presented as a risk ratio (e.g., 1:10,000 = low risk, 1:100 = high risk).
Only a specialist can interpret the results in context with NT Scan findings, maternal age, and medical history.
Procedure of the Double Marker Test
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Sample Collection: A simple blood sample is drawn from the mother.
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No Invasive Risk: It is a safe test, posing no harm to the baby.
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Report Time: Results are usually available within 24–48 hours at labs like Redcliffe Labs.
Preparation for the Test
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Fasting is not mandatory unless combined with other blood tests.
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Stay hydrated and relaxed before sample collection.
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Inform the doctor about any medications or supplements.
Risks or Side Effects
The Double Marker Test is a non-invasive screening test, so risks are minimal. Possible issues include:
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Mild bruising at the needle site
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Temporary dizziness in rare cases
Unlike procedures like amniocentesis, this test has no risk to the fetus.
Myths & Facts
Myth 1: A high-risk result means the baby is definitely abnormal.
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Fact: It only indicates probability, not confirmation.
Myth 2: Only older women need the test.
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Fact: Genetic disorders can occur in any pregnancy.
Myth 3: The test can harm the baby.
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Fact: It is a simple blood test, completely safe for both mother and child.
Double Marker Test vs. NIPT
| Feature | Double Marker Test | NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | 11–14 weeks | 10+ weeks |
| Accuracy | 80–90% (with NT scan) | >99% |
| Cost | Affordable | Higher cost |
| Role | Screening | Screening & higher accuracy |
Doctors may recommend NIPT if Double Marker Test results show high risk.
Cost of Double Marker Test in India
The cost varies depending on city and diagnostic center:
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Delhi NCR (Noida, Gurgaon, Ghaziabad): ₹1,800 – ₹3,500
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Mumbai & Pune: ₹2,000 – ₹3,800
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Bangalore & Hyderabad: ₹1,700 – ₹3,200
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Kolkata & Chennai: ₹1,500 – ₹3,000
At Redcliffe Labs, the Double Marker Test starts at just ₹1,500, with free home sample collection and reports in 24–48 hours.
Why Choose Redcliffe Labs?
- NABL & ISO Certified Labs – Ensures international accuracy
- Affordable Packages – Cost-effective prenatal screenings
- Free Home Sample Collection – Comfort of testing at home
- Quick Digital Reports – Available within 24–48 hours
- Doctor Consultation – Guidance on next steps if results are abnormal
- Trusted Nationwide – Millions of customers rely on Redcliffe Labs
FAQs on Double Marker Test
1. Is it compulsory?
No, but doctors strongly recommend it for early risk detection.
2. Can it detect autism?
No, it only screens for chromosomal abnormalities.
3. How accurate is it?
Accuracy increases when combined with an NT Scan (~85–90%).
4. Can I skip it if I plan NIPT?
Yes, NIPT is more advanced, but Double Marker Test is cost-effective.
5. Does insurance cover it?
Some maternity health plans cover prenatal screenings.
Conclusion
The Double Marker Test is a vital first-trimester screening that helps assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities in the baby. It is safe, affordable, and crucial for making informed pregnancy decisions.
With Redcliffe Labs’ NABL-certified facilities, free home collection, affordable pricing, and quick results, expecting parents in India can access world-class prenatal care with ease.