AFP is a protein that a developing baby makes. Normally, some AFP passes from the baby into the pregnant person’s blood. Certain conditions can make a baby’s body release more or less AFP. During pregnancy, if your AFP blood levels are higher or lower than normal, it may be sign that:
- The baby has a high risk of having a genetic disorder, such as:
- A neural tube defect, which is a serious condition that causes abnormal development of a developing baby’s brain and/or spine.
- Down syndrome, a genetic disorder that causes intellectual disabilities and other health problems.
- Your estimated due date is wrong. AFP levels normally rise and fall at set times during pregnancy, so an abnormal AFP may mean that your baby is due earlier or later than estimated. This is the most common reason for abnormal AFP levels.
- You’re pregnant with more than one baby. Each baby makes AFP, so your AFP blood levels will be higher with two or more babies.
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