Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum

Procedure Information

What is Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum?

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum is a lab test that measures the level of a protein called AFP in the blood. This protein is made by the fetus during pregnancy and AFP levels in the mother's blood can give information about the health of her unborn baby.

Why would I get an Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum?

A doctor may require an AFP Level, Serum test to check for birth defects or genetic conditions in a fetus, assess a mother's risk of having a premature delivery, or to monitor a pregnant woman's health during and after delivery.

What happens during an Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum procedure?

To perform this procedure, a healthcare provider will take a sample of your blood. This can be done through a needle in the vein ( venipuncture) or through a simple fingerprick.

What to expect after an Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum procedure?

After the test, you may experience a slight discomfort from the needle prick, but this typically resolves quickly. Results from this test usually take a few days to arrive and will tell you the level of AFP in your blood.

Conclusion

Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) Level, Serum is an important procedure that helps to measure and monitor the level of AFP in a pregnant woman's blood and to assess her baby's health. This procedure is generally safe and results are typically available within a few days.