Q: After checking the results of triple test during the third month of my pregnancy the doctor sought our opinion for amniocentesis. She also said that the ultrasound was normal. There is no history of Downs Syndrome in the family. I am 30 years old and this is my first pregnancy.

A:Triple screening test has been developed to identify pregnancies at increased risk of Down syndrome in women below 35 years of age. Depending upon the test kits used and the cut-off chosen a positive test only means a risk of 1:270 or 1:300. In normal population, below 35 years of age, the general risk of Down syndrome is 1:800. A positive triple screen test is only an indication to carry out chromosomal analysis which is done on cells obtained by amniocentesis. It takes 2-3 weeks time for results to come and the laboratory should have good experience in the field. Before any genetic test it is essential that appropriate pre-test and post-test counselling is obtained from a professional genetic counselor. This reply should not be taken as a substitute for it.