Double marker test (first trimester)
Quick answer: The double marker test measures two substances in the mother's blood, free beta hCG and PAPP-A, to estimate the chance of the baby having Down syndrome or some other chromosomal conditions. It is offered between about 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, usually combined with the NT scan.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes for the blood test
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; bring your scan report, as the exact week of pregnancy is needed.
- In fertility careThis is a screening test in early pregnancy; it gives a chance (risk), not a diagnosis.
How the test is done
- 1You have an NT scan first, or on the same day, to confirm the week
- 2You share your scan report with the lab
- 3A needle draws blood from a vein
- 4The lab calculates your chance using the blood results, scan and age
What your results can mean
Reading your report
The report gives a risk figure based on your age, scan and blood results, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A high-chance result means the chance of conditions such as Down syndrome is higher than the cut-off, not that the baby has it. A low-chance result is reassuring but does not rule out every condition.
Who usually has this test
Pregnant women between about 11 and 14 weeks who choose first-trimester screening, including after IVF.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising at the needle site is the only usual effect; there is no risk to the baby from a blood test.
Names and options
Also called: dual marker, first trimester screening, PAPP-A and free beta hCG
Listed by the hospital as
- DOUBLE MARKER TEST (1ST TRIMESTER)
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUI
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transfer
- 5Pregnancy check-upsThis test
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
When is the double marker test done?
It is usually done between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy, often on the same day as the NT scan. The scan dates the pregnancy, which the risk calculation needs.
What if my double marker result is high risk?
A high-risk result does not mean your baby has a condition. It means further tests, such as NIPT or a diagnostic test, may be offered. Your doctor will explain the options.
Is the double marker test reliable after IVF?
It can be used after IVF, but the lab needs to know if the pregnancy came from IVF, donor eggs, or is a twin pregnancy. These details can affect how your chance is calculated.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.