Why are tests in pregnancy performed?
There are a number of tests which are available for pregnant women. These tests are performed to monitor the development and general well being of the mother and the child. Regular tests should be performed by your doctor to ensure your and your baby’s well-being. Different tests are available for different purposes during pregnancy which include-
- Tests to confirm pregnancy
- Tests to monitor the health of mother and baby
- Tests for specific screening and diagnosis
What are tests to confirm pregnancy?
Usually you will suspect a pregnancy after a missed period.There are a few tests available for confirmation of pregnancy after this. These tests detect the levels of hCG or human chorionic gonadotropin in the sample for confirming pregnancy.
- Home pregnancy kit : There are a number of home pregnancy kits available at pharmacies which can be purchased without the prescription of a doctor. The woman needs to add a few drops of her urine to the test kit and the results appear in a few minutes. It is essential to follow the exact instructions as listed for true results.
- Urine test : A doctor can recommend a urine test from a lab to check for hCG levels in urine.
- Blood test : A doctor can recommend a blood test from a lab to check for hCG levels in blood.
What are the tests to monitor the health of mother and baby in pregnancy?
Regular check ups and various tests need to be performed throughout the duration of pregnancy to monitor the health of mother and baby of the baby in pregnancy. These tests help to identify and prevent any potential problems in pregnancy.
- Screening blood tests of mother : A number of blood tests are performed on the mother at different times in pregnancy to check for iron levels, diabetes, blood group and infections.
- Ultrasound first trimester: Ultrasound in the first trimester of pregnancy is done to check the development of the baby, number of babies and estimated date of delivery.
- Ultrasound second trimester : Ultrasound in the second trimester is performed to check for the growth and development of baby, placement, size and location of the placenta.
- Ultrasound third trimester : Ultrasound in the third trimester is performed to check the surrounding fluid of the bab, check growth of baby and position of the baby.
Are the tests available for screening specific health problems?
There are some tests available for screening of specific health problems which may develop in the baby. These are not routinely recommended for all pregnant women. These tests should be taken by women whose babies are at risk for developing specific health problems. These conditions include Downs Syndrome, neural tube defects, spina bifida and genetic conditions which run in the family.
What are specific screening and diagnostic tests in pregnancy?
Specific screening and diagnostic tests are available for different conditions through the pregnancy. Screening tests can predict the likelihood of a condition developing in a baby while a diagnostic test gives a more definitive result. These tests include:
Specific screening tests
- Combined first trimester screening test: It combines a first trimester ultrasound and a maternal serum test to check for likelihood of development of Down’s Syndrome and other chromosomal defects.
- Second trimester maternal serum screening: It uses testing of maternal serum in the second trimester of pregnancy to check for likelihood of development of Down’s Syndrome and neural tube defects.
Specific diagnostic tests
- Ultrasound: It can be used to check for the health of the baby in case the mother has problems during the pregnancy such as vaginal bleeding or absence of foetal movement.
- Chorionic villi sampling: A sample of placenta is taken by guiding a needle through the abdomen of the mother. This sample is then checked in the laboratory for specific disorders.
- Amniocentesis : In this a sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding the baby is taken by inserting a needle through the abdomen of the mother. This fluid contains cells shed by the baby which are then examined in the lab for specific conditions.
What should I know about the tests in pregnancy?
- Regular tests during pregnancy are important for monitoring the well being of mother and foetus
- Testing can help to detect potential problems early in pregnancy
- You should consult your obstetrician and go for regular follow ups and tests
- You should consider specific screening tests if genetic conditions run in your family
- You should consider specific screening tests if you find that your baby may be at risk of developing health conditions
- Some tests such as chorionic villi sampling and amniocentesis carry a small risk of abortion amongst other problems. These risks should be clearly explained by your doctor.
