Throughout the pregnancy journey, various diagnostic tools and tests ensure the comfort and safety of both the mother and the baby. These tests begin with confirming the pregnancy and continue throughout the different stages of pregnancy. Each trimester is associated with specific tests that play a vital role in monitoring the well-being of the mother and the development of the baby. Here we offer a comprehensive guide to all the pregnancy scans and procedures done during your motherhood journey.
Early pregnancy scans
Dating Scan: A dating scan is usually performed in the first trimester between 7 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. It uses ultrasound to estimate the gestational age of the fetus and reveals the expected due date.
Full Blood Count: A full blood count (FBC) is a blood test that provides information about the levels of different blood components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It helps identify conditions such as anaemia or infections that may affect the health of the mother and the developing fetus.
Urinalysis: Urinalysis involves testing a urine sample for various markers, such as glucose, protein, and bacteria. It helps assess kidney function, screen for urinary tract infections, and detect conditions like gestational diabetes or preeclampsia.
Fetal echo: Fetal Echo is a non-invasive test that uses Doppler ultrasound or electronic sensors to monitor the baby’s heart rate. It provides information about the baby’s well-being and detects any irregularities in the fetal heart rate.
Blood test (Serum Beta HCG) – The placenta produces serum beta hCG, a hormone, during pregnancy. Monitoring pregnancy progress and assessing the risk of complications like ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage often involves performing blood tests to measure serum beta hCG levels.
Throughout pregnancy, healthcare providers conduct regular screening tests to monitor the mother’s health and identify potential risks.
- Rubella
- Tuberculosis
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
- Hepatitis C and D
Late pregnancy scans
During the late stages of pregnancy, regular health check-ups are crucial for monitoring the growth and development of the fetus and ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) – The OGTT screens gestational diabetes. High blood sugar levels causes diabtes during pregnancy.
- Repeat Full Blood Count – A repeat full blood count, conducted in late pregnancy, assesses blood cell levels, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This helps identify any changes or abnormalities that may require further evaluation or treatment.
- Pelvic Exams – Pelvic exams, performed during late pregnancy evaluates the cervix for its readiness for labour. These exams provide information about the thinning and dilation (opening) of the cervix.
- Nonstress Test – A nonstress test is a common test in late pregnancy to assess the well-being of the fetus. It measures the baby’s heart rate in response to its movements using electronic fetal monitoring. This test helps determine if the baby is receiving enough oxygen and if further intervention is necessary.
- Contraction Stress Test – This test moniters how well the baby responds to stress during labour by inducing contractions.
Ultrasound screening during pregnancy:
Ultrasound plays a crucial role in prenatal care as it allows doctors to monitor the baby’s development and detect any potential abnormalities. It’s non-invasive, painless, and safe for both the mother and the baby. Further tests are offered for fetal abnormalities.
First Trimester: During the first three months of pregnancy, healthcare providers conduct an ultrasound to assess embryo development in the womb. This scan confirms the number of embryos, determines gestational age, and establishes the due date.
Second Trimester: In the second trimester, typically between 18 and 20 weeks of pregnancy, an ultrasound evaluates organ and structure development, including limbs, spine, brain, and heart and the size and location of the placenta. The ultrasound can also reveal the baby’s sex, if parents wish to know.
Third Trimester: In the later stages of pregnancy, an ultrasound assesses various factors determining the baby’s position, estimates their weight, evaluates amniotic fluid levels, and identifies any potential complications. The scan helps the doctor develop an appropriate delivery plan to ensure a smooth and safe delivery.
Specific tests done to detect complications
Nuchal Translucency Test – NT test is typically performed between 11 and 14 weeks (about 3 months) of pregnancy. It measures the thickness of the nuchal translucency, a pocket of fluid at the back of the baby’s neck. Abnormal thickness can indicate a higher risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down syndrome or other genetic conditions.
Anomaly Scan – It’s a mid-pregnancy ultrasound, done in 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. It involves a complete examination of the fetus’s anatomy to detect any abnormality or developmental issues in organs, bones, etc.
Double and Triple Market Test – Double and Triple markers are blood tests performed between 15 and 20 weeks of pregnancy. The double marker test measures two specific substances in the mother’s blood; serum beta HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and PAPP-A (Pregnancy Associated Plasma Protein-A). The triple marker test measures these two substances with an additional marker called alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). Abnormal levels of these markers can indicate a higher risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities.
Recognizing the importance of pregnancy scans and tests in detecting complications is crucial. Aarthi Scans and Labs offers comprehensive and safe guidance throughout all your pregnancy procedures, giving expectant parents peace of mind. Schedule your appointment now.
