Common Tests During Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, you may select from several tests. These tests can both verify your pregnancy and track the growth of your unborn child while it is still in the womb. Additionally, there are optional tests that might provide insight into a variety of diseases that may impact a pregnancy.

The most important aspect of prenatal care is routine checkups with your physician, which include guidance and information about the tests you and your unborn child will require. Let's take a look at some of the most common tests recommended while you’re pregnant.

Tests During Pregnancy

These are a few of the most common tests during pregnancy.

1. First-Trimester Prenatal Screening Tests

In the first trimester (months 1, 2, and 3), you might have several tests. To find out which tests are best for you, speak with your doctor.

Genetic condition screening for carriers: This screening test determines whether you carry any genetic disorders that could harm your unborn child by examining your blood or saliva.
Noninvasive prenatal screening or testing, sometimes known as cell-free fetal DNA testing: This screening test detects the DNA of your unborn child in your blood. The DNA is analyzed to check for Down syndrome and other genetic disorders. This test is performed 9 weeks into the pregnancy.
Chorionic villus sampling, or CVS: It is a diagnostic procedure that examines placental tissue to determine whether your unborn child has a genetic disorder. CVS is performed between weeks 10 and 13 of pregnancy.
Early ultrasound, also known as first-trimester ultrasound: An ultrasound creates an image of your unborn child within the womb using sound waves and a computer screen. To confirm that you are pregnant or to date your pregnancy so you know how many weeks you are in, your doctor may do an early ultrasound.
Screening in the first trimester: To determine whether your child is at risk for certain congenital disabilities, such as Down syndrome and heart issues, this screening test consists of an ultrasound and a blood test. Typically, the test is conducted between weeks 11 and 13 of pregnancy.

2. Second-Trimester Prenatal Screening Tests

During the second trimester (months 4, 5, and 6 of pregnancy), your doctor might recommend these prenatal tests:

Maternal blood screening (also referred to as the quad screen): This blood test determines if your unborn child is susceptible to congenital conditions like Down syndrome. Because it measures four chemicals in your blood—alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), estriol, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and inhibin A—it is known as a quad screen. The test is performed between weeks 15 and 22 of pregnancy.
Ultrasound: Between weeks 18 and 22 of your pregnancy, your doctor will conduct an ultrasound. In addition to assessing your baby's growth and development, the pregnancy ultrasound will look for any congenital disabilities.
Amniocentesis: This procedure involves drawing a sample of amniotic fluid from the area surrounding the baby. The fluid is examined to find out whether your child has a genetic disorder or congenital problems. Typically, the test is conducted between weeks 15 and 20 of pregnancy.
Glucose screening: This test determines whether you might have gestational diabetes. Some women get this type of diabetes while pregnant. This test is performed between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy.

3. Third-Trimester Prenatal Screening Tests

Your doctor tests you for group B strep (commonly known as GBS) during the last trimester, which is months 7, 8, and 9 of pregnancy. When you give birth, you can infect your unborn child with group B strep. The test determines whether you have GBS by testing the fluid from your cervix. The GBS test is performed between weeks 35 and 37 of pregnancy.

Conclusion

It is entirely up to you whether or not to undergo prenatal genetic testing. Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of testing with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Additionally, you might consult a genetic counselor. This medical expert may help you in selecting a test and understanding its results. Making the best choice for you and your child can be achieved by giving each option a little consideration.

Besides, you should also secure your child's future with cord blood banking at Cryoviva, India’s best cord blood banking service provider. We provide both stem cell and blood banking services, helping you to preserve life-saving stem cells to secure your little one’s future from diseases.