3. High alpha-fetoprotein levels
There are many hormones and proteins that flood the system during pregnancy. A lack of certain proteins or hormones may signal a problem, just as an elevated amount may be a sign of an anomaly. These protein levels increase and a gradual rate naturally between weeks 14 and 32 of gestation. Illness, genetic defects and neural tube disorders in a fetus can cause these numbers to jump astronomically.
When a pregnant woman exhibits elevated levels of a certain fetal protein, the alpha-fetoprotein, it may mean that the fetus is afflicted with a genetic defect such as Anencephaly or spina bifida. Doctors test for this fetal protein by sampling the mother’s blood. If abnormal levels are discovered, the amniotic fluid will be tested for further confirmation.
In many instances high levels of this particular fetal protein cause extra fluid to build in the sac. This fluid can be seen during an ultrasound.