How do I know if my wife’s 14-week dual marker is normal?

Question

Hello doctor,

My wife is 14 weeks pregnant. Please review the reports of the NT scan and dual marker test, and let me know if anything appears to be incorrect in the report. Her nuchal translucency measures 1.6 mm, free beta hCG is 43.90 ng/mL, and PAPP-A is 2.83 mIU/mL. Please suggest which works she should avoid.

What type of food should she have?
What vitamins or food supplements should she take?

Provide general dos and don'ts to follow during this stage of pregnancy.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

Thank you for sharing the reports (attachment removed to protect the patient’s identity). I have reviewed them carefully, and I am pleased to reassure you that both the nuchal translucency (NT) scan and the dual marker test results are very encouraging.

The routine NT scan and low-risk dual marker indicate a minimal chance of trisomy conditions, such as Down syndrome (a genetic condition from having an extra copy of chromosome 21), which is excellent news at 14 weeks. Given your wife’s age, the risk was already low, and these results further support a healthy pregnancy progression.

For nutrition, emphasize a balanced diet. Include proteins such as eggs, lentils, and lean meats; calcium from dairy products and leafy greens; and iron-rich foods like spinach and beans. Small, frequent meals can help with nausea. Ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water. Avoid raw or undercooked foods, unpasteurized dairy products, and high-mercury fish, such as shark or swordfish, to prevent infections.

Supplements are key. Continue prenatal vitamins containing at least 400 mcg of folic acid, along with iron and calcium. Adding vitamin D and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) can help support bone and brain development.

Engage in light exercise such as walking or prenatal yoga. Ensure adequate rest and attend regular prenatal checkups.

You should avoid it during this stage of pregnancy.

Avoid alcohol.
Smoking.
Excessive caffeine.
Limiting caffeine to one cup per day.
Avoid heavy lifting, hot tubs, and saunas.
Always consult a doctor before taking any medications.

If she experiences any unusual symptoms such as bleeding, severe pain, or reduced fetal movement, please contact me immediately. Otherwise, enjoy this journey together with peace of mind. I am here for any concerns.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.