Expectant mothers need to take care of themselves and their unborn child to ensure a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery.

One of the most important aspects of prenatal care is undergoing essential medical tests prescribed by the gynecologist or obstetrician. Medical tests play an integral role in monitoring and assessing the mother and baby’s health, identifying any potential risks and complications, and taking necessary precautions to keep them both safe.

First Trimester Medical Tests

The first trimester is a critical period of the pregnancy, and medical tests during this phase usually focus on assessing the mother’s health and calculating the due date.

1. Blood Tests

Blood tests during the first trimester are essential to determine the mother’s blood type, Rh factor, and hemoglobin levels.

This test is necessary to understand if there are any blood-related complications that may pose a risk to the baby during delivery or cause anemia in the mother.

2. Urine Tests

The urine test checks for urinary tract infections, protein, and sugar in the urine. Urinary tract infections during pregnancy can be dangerous, and detecting them early can help to avoid potential risks for the mother and baby.

Protein in urine could be a sign of kidney problems, and sugar in urine may indicate gestational diabetes.

3. Ultrasound Scan

The first ultrasound scan is usually done between six to eight weeks to determine the baby’s viability and gestational age.

The ultrasound scan also helps to detect any potential abnormalities in the fetus and identify if there are any signs of ectopic pregnancy.

Second Trimester Medical Tests

The second trimester is a stage of rapid growth and development for the baby. Medical tests during this phase focus on keeping track of the baby’s growth and development, as well as detecting any potential risks and complications.

1. Glucose Screening Test

The glucose screening test is done between 24-28 weeks to check for gestational diabetes. This test involves drinking a sweet drink, and after an hour, a blood test is performed to check glucose levels in the blood.

If the levels are too high, further testing may be required to diagnose gestational diabetes and take appropriate measures to keep the mother and baby safe.

2. Quad Screen Test

The quad screen test is done between 15-20 weeks and checks for the baby’s risk of developing certain birth defects.

This test evaluates four substances in the mother’s blood to determine the likelihood of the baby having Down syndrome, neural tube defects, or other chromosomal abnormalities.

3. Anatomy Ultrasound Scan

The anatomy ultrasound scan is performed between 18-22 weeks. This ultrasound allows the gynecologist or obstetrician to get a clear picture of the baby’s anatomy, including the organs, limbs, and overall growth and development.

The ultrasound can also detect any potential abnormalities or defects that may require medical attention.

Third Trimester Medical Tests

The third trimester is the final stretch of the pregnancy, and medical tests during this phase focus on monitoring the mother and baby’s health and making the necessary preparations for delivery.

1. Group B Strep Screening

The group B strep screening is done between 35-37 weeks to check for the presence of group B streptococcus bacteria in the mother’s vagina or rectum.

If the mother carries this bacteria, she may pass it on to the baby during delivery, which can cause severe infections, pneumonia, and meningitis. If positive, the doctor will recommend administering antibiotics during delivery to prevent transmission of the bacteria.

2. Non-Stress Test (NST)

The Non-Stress Test is performed during the third trimester if the mother is experiencing high-risk pregnancy or if the baby is not moving as expected.

The test involves attaching belts or monitors to the mother’s stomach to observe the baby’s heart rate in response to its movements. This information is recorded and evaluated to ensure that the baby is getting enough oxygen and nutrients through the placenta, and there are no signs of fetal distress.

3. Biophysical Profile (BPP)

The Biophysical Profile is done if the Non-Stress Test is not clear or if the baby shows signs of distress. This test involves incorporating ultrasound observation and fetal heart rate monitoring to determine the health and well-being of the baby.

The test evaluates the baby’s breathing, movements, tone, and the amount of amniotic fluid. Based on the results, the doctor may suggest delivering the baby early if there is a risk of complications.

: Conclusion

Prenatal care and essential medical tests play a crucial role in ensuring the health and well-being of the mother and baby.

Medical tests by trimester help monitor the progress of the pregnancy, detect any complications early, and take necessary steps to prevent any risks. Discuss with the gynecologist or obstetrician about recommended medical tests at every stage of the pregnancy, and don’t miss out on any of them to have a safe and healthy delivery.