Routine Tests During Pregnancy
What tests are done early in pregnancy?
When you first find out you're pregnant, a few key lab tests are usually on the agenda. These typically include:
Complete Blood Count (CBC): This gives us a snapshot of your blood cells.
Blood Type: Knowing your blood type is important, especially regarding the Rh factor.
Urinalysis
Urine culture
Rubella
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
Tuberculosis (TB)
Why are tests done during pregnancy?
It's a great question to ask why so many tests are recommended during pregnancy! Think of them as your prenatal care team's way of keeping a close eye on both you and your developing baby. These routine lab tests are designed to help identify any conditions that might pose a higher risk for complications. It's all about being proactive and ensuring the healthiest possible journey for you both.
What is a CBC and what can the results show?
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is like a detailed report on the different types of cells in your blood. The number of red blood cells can tell us if you have a certain type of anemia. The count of white blood cells indicates how many disease-fighting cells are active in your body. And the number of platelets can reveal if there are any issues with blood clotting.
What is blood typing and what can the results show?
Your blood type test results can reveal if you have the Rh factor. This is a protein found on the surface of red blood cells. Most people are Rh positive, meaning they have it, while others are Rh negative. If your baby is Rh positive and you are Rh negative, your body might create antibodies against the Rh factor. In future pregnancies, these antibodies could potentially affect your baby's red blood cells.
What is a urinalysis and what can the results show?
A urinalysis checks your urine for things like red blood cells (which could indicate urinary tract issues), white blood cells (a sign of a possible urinary tract infection), and glucose. High glucose levels might suggest diabetes. The test also measures protein levels. Comparing protein levels from early pregnancy to later stages can be helpful. Elevated protein in the urine can sometimes signal preeclampsia, a serious condition that typically appears later in pregnancy or after birth.
What is a urine culture test and what can the results show?
A urine culture is specifically looking for bacteria in your urine, which is a common indicator of a urinary tract infection.
What is rubella and what do test results for this disease show?
Rubella, also known as German measles, can unfortunately lead to birth defects if a pregnant woman contracts it. Your blood is tested to see if you've had a past rubella infection or if you've been vaccinated. If you haven't had it or the vaccine, it's important to avoid anyone who has it while pregnant, as it's highly contagious. You can get the vaccine after your baby is born, even if you're breastfeeding, but it's not recommended during pregnancy.
What are hepatitis B and hepatitis C and what do test results for these diseases show?
Hepatitis B and C are viruses that affect the liver. If a pregnant woman has these infections, there's a possibility of passing the virus to her baby. All pregnant women are screened for hepatitis B. If you have certain risk factors, you might also be tested for hepatitis C.
Which STD tests are done in pregnant women?
All pregnant women are tested for syphilis and chlamydia early in pregnancy, as these STDs can cause complications for both mother and baby. If found, treatment is provided during pregnancy, followed by re-testing. Depending on your age and where you live, you might also be tested for gonorrhea.
Why are all pregnant women tested for HIV?
Testing all pregnant women for HIV is crucial because if a mother has HIV, there's a risk of transmitting it to her baby. HIV weakens the immune system. However, with medication and other interventions during pregnancy, the risk of transmission can be significantly reduced.
Which pregnant women should be tested for TB?
Women who are at a higher risk for tuberculosis (TB), such as those with HIV or who live with someone who has TB, should be tested for this infection.
What tests are performed later in pregnancy?
As your pregnancy progresses, other tests may be recommended:
A repeat CBC
Rh antibody test
Glucose screening test
Group B streptococci (GBS) screening
When will I be tested for Rh antibodies?
If you are Rh negative, your blood will be checked for Rh antibodies between 28 and 29 weeks of pregnancy. If no antibodies are present, you'll receive an injection of Rh immunoglobulin, which helps prevent your body from developing antibodies. If antibodies are already present, you may require specialized care.
What is a glucose screening test and what can the results show?
This test measures your blood glucose (sugar) levels. An elevated level could indicate gestational diabetes, which develops during pregnancy. It's typically done between 24 and 28 weeks. If you have risk factors for diabetes or have had gestational diabetes before, screening might occur earlier.
What is GBS and why are pregnant women tested for it?
GBS, or Group B Streptococcus, is a type of bacteria that can live in the vagina and rectum. Many women carry it without symptoms. During birth, it can be passed to the baby. While most babies are unaffected, some can develop serious health problems or even pass away. GBS is usually detected with a screening test between 35 and 37 weeks of pregnancy, involving a swab from the vagina and rectum.
What happens if my GBS screening test result is positive?
If your GBS test is positive, antibiotics can be administered during labor to help protect your baby from infection.
What is the difference between screening tests and diagnostic tests for birth defects?
Screening tests are designed to assess the risk of certain birth defects. They don't definitively diagnose a condition. Screening tests are generally safe for the fetus. Diagnostic tests, on the other hand, can actually detect many birth defects caused by genetic or chromosomal issues. These might be recommended if there's a family history of birth defects, certain ethnic backgrounds, or if you've previously had a child with a birth defect. Some diagnostic tests do carry a small risk, including a slight chance of pregnancy loss.
What is the first step in screening for birth defects?
The initial step in screening for birth defects involves evaluating your personal risk factors. Your healthcare provider will likely ask questions about your medical history, family history of birth defects, age, or existing conditions like diabetes. Sometimes, consulting with a genetic counselor can provide more in-depth information about your risks.
What is a carrier test?
A carrier test can determine if you or your partner carry a gene for a specific inherited disorder, like cystic fibrosis. These tests can be done before or during pregnancy and are often recommended if there's a family history of genetic disorders or if you belong to an ethnic group with a higher risk.
What are other types of screening tests for birth defects that can be performed during pregnancy?
Beyond blood tests, screening can also involve an ultrasound exam combined with blood tests that measure specific substances in your blood.
What are the types of diagnostic tests for birth defects that can be performed during pregnancy?
Common diagnostic tests include amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), and a targeted ultrasound.
Can I choose whether or not to have testing for birth defects?
Absolutely. The decision to undergo testing is entirely personal. Knowing about potential birth defects beforehand can help you prepare for your baby's needs or make informed decisions about your pregnancy. Your healthcare provider or a genetic counselor can discuss all your options with you.
If you have further questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your midwife.
Glossary
Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS): A severe immune system deficiency caused by HIV.
Amniocentesis: A procedure to test amniotic fluid surrounding the fetus.
Anemia: A condition of low red blood cell count.
Antibiotics: Medications to treat bacterial infections.
Antibodies: Proteins produced by the immune system in response to foreign substances.
Bacteria: Microscopic organisms that can cause infections.
Carrier: Someone who carries a gene for a disorder but shows no symptoms.
Cells: The basic building blocks of the body.
Chlamydia: A common sexually transmitted infection.
Chorionic Villus Sampling: A test that analyzes placental tissue.
Chromosomes: Structures within cells that carry genetic information.
Cystic Fibrosis: An inherited disorder affecting digestion and breathing.
Diabetes: A condition characterized by high blood sugar levels.
Fetus: The developing baby from the ninth week of pregnancy until birth.
Gene: A unit of heredity that determines traits.
Genetic Counselor: A professional who advises on genetic disorders and testing.
Gestational Diabetes: Diabetes that occurs during pregnancy.
Glucose: A type of sugar used by the body for energy.
Gonorrhea: A sexually transmitted infection.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): The virus that causes AIDS.
Preeclampsia: A pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Prenatal Care: Medical care provided to pregnant women.
Rh Factor: A protein on red blood cells that can cause immune reactions.
Rh Immunoglobulin: A medication to prevent antibody formation in Rh-negative individuals.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Infections spread through sexual contact.
Syphilis: A serious sexually transmitted infection.
Trimester: A three-month period of pregnancy.
Tuberculosis (TB): A contagious bacterial infection, usually affecting the lungs.
Ultrasound Exam: A diagnostic imaging technique using sound waves.
