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From fertility treatments to safe deliveries and newborn care, our experienced team combines advanced technology with a personal touch to support you and your family at every stage.
Understanding Prenatal Marker Screening
Prenatal marker screening is a simple maternal blood test that measures specific hormone and protein levels to estimate your baby's risk of chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and neural tube defects.
These are screening tests, not diagnostic tests — they help identify pregnancies that may benefit from further evaluation, giving you clear, timely information without any risk to your baby.
At Sanjeevini Maternity & Fertility Centre, every result is interpreted by Dr. Vasundhari M.J. and explained in simple terms, with guidance on any recommended next steps.
Simple Blood Test
A quick maternal blood draw — no risk to you or your baby.
Risk-Assessment, Not Diagnosis
Estimates probability; further tests confirm if risk is elevated.
Trimester-Specific
Double Marker in the first trimester; Quadruple Marker in the second.
Specialist-Interpreted
Results reviewed and explained clearly by our care team.
Double Marker vs Quadruple Marker Test
Both tests screen for chromosomal risk, but at different stages of pregnancy and using different markers.
Double Marker Test
- Measures two markers: free beta-hCG and PAPP-A
- Often combined with a nuchal translucency (NT) ultrasound
- Screens for Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome risk
- Provides early-pregnancy reassurance or guidance
Quadruple Marker Test
- Measures four markers: AFP, hCG, estriol and inhibin-A
- Recommended for those who missed first-trimester screening
- Screens for Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome and neural tube defects
- Useful as a stand-alone or follow-up screening step
When & Why Is the Test Recommended?
Your doctor may recommend Double or Quadruple Marker screening in any of the following situations.
Routine First-Trimester Screening
Standard risk assessment offered to all expecting mothers early in pregnancy.
Advanced Maternal Age
Recommended for pregnancies where age increases baseline chromosomal risk.
Family History of Genetic Conditions
To assess risk when there is a relevant family or obstetric history.
Missed First-Trimester Window
Quadruple Marker offers a second-trimester screening option.
Abnormal Ultrasound Findings
To follow up on findings noted during a routine scan.
Peace of Mind
For parents who want early, informed reassurance about their pregnancy.
Your Testing & Results Journey
A simple, guided path from your blood draw to your next step in care.
Preparation
Your doctor confirms the right test window based on your weeks of pregnancy.
Sample Collection
A quick, straightforward maternal blood draw at our centre.
Lab Analysis
Markers are measured and combined with your clinical details to calculate risk.
Results & Next Steps
Your doctor explains the results and recommends any further evaluation if needed.
Our Specialists
Prenatal marker screening at Sanjeevini Maternity & Fertility Centre is guided and interpreted by our experienced specialists.
Dr. Vasundhari M.J.
Maternity & Fertility SpecialistGuides prenatal screening decisions and explains results clearly, ensuring every parent feels informed and supported.
Dr. Apoorva
Women's Health SpecialistSupports pregnancy risk assessment and follow-up care with a patient-first, detail-oriented approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Double or Quadruple Marker test safe for my baby?+
Yes. Both are simple maternal blood tests with no risk to you or your baby, unlike invasive diagnostic procedures.
What's the difference between screening and diagnostic tests?+
Screening tests like these estimate risk levels. If a result shows elevated risk, your doctor may recommend a diagnostic test for confirmation.
Can I take the Quadruple Marker test if I missed the Double Marker window?+
Yes. The Quadruple Marker test is performed later in pregnancy and can be done independently if the first-trimester window was missed.
How soon will I receive my results?+
Results are typically available within a few days, after which your doctor will discuss the findings and any recommended next steps with you.
Does an abnormal result mean something is definitely wrong?+
No. An elevated-risk result simply means further evaluation is recommended — it does not confirm a diagnosis on its own.