Q: What is the quadruple screen?

A: This is a blood test from the mother, which shows if is at increased risk of Down Syndrome, Trisomy 18, or an open neural tube defect on the baby.

Q: How is the quadruple test performed?

A: This is a blood draw from the mother between 15-22 weeks measuring proteins that are produced by the mother, placenta, and the developing baby. Abnormal measurements of these proteins could indicate an increased risk.

Q: Is the test definitive?

A: No. The test simply tells you if you are at an increased risk for these problems over your age-related risk. In order to be definitive, a targeted ultrasound and/or amniocentesis needs to be performed.