Pregnancy is the best feeling for every woman. Both, the fetus and mother needs utmost care and regular check-ups for their better health.
Following tests are recommended during all three trimesters of pregnancy:
1. First-trimester testing:
Blood tests- Complete Blood Count (CBC) determines hemoglobin levels in red blood cells. Lack of hemoglobin will supply less oxygen to the developing fetus. Mother’s blood is screened for Hepatitis B and C and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Urine Screening- High glucose or protein in urine indicates gestational diabetes or kidney disease. Bacterial vaginosis test detect bacterial infections, which may cause a pre-term labor. Thyroid testing- Monitors functioning of thyroid gland, which produces hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) necessary for healthy growth and development of fetus and mother.
2. Second-trimester testing: Antenatal screening for double, triple and quadruple markers determines maternal risk for having child with Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome or neural tube defect.