is a triple test and an Oscar the same thing?

[mendipgirl]

I can have a triple test free on the NHS which wasn't available with DD, so with her i had an Oscar privately (about £200). Are they the same thing or should I still have the Oscar done?

[LittlePoot]

Hi. From what I understand, the Oscar is another name for the combined nuchal scan and papp-A/hCG blood test. This is done between 11-13 weeks. The triple test is a different blood test carried out I think at around 15 weeks where they look for AFP, uE3 and inhibin A. The most accurate way to screen for Downs syndrome and other chromosomal issues is actually to combine the two of these, which NHS trusts are gradually rolling out across the country. Unfortunately, not quickly enough in your case.

The nuchal scan plus blood test will give you a much earlier answer as to whether your pregnancy is high or low risk for a chromosomal problem. I'm not sure where you are, but if you do decide to go for that, I would have a look for somewhere which offers it cheaper - the Fetal Medicine Centre on Harley Street, London, for example, offers the nuchal/bloods for £150, and that is where the guy who invented the test works. £200 sounds a bit steep.

Opinions on here will vary on whether to have one or both of these tests, but for what its worth - I'd definitely go for the nuchal option. Hope that helps?