Tests during pregnancy: the most important questions and detailed answers

What tests should be taken at the beginning of pregnancy?

The first visit to the doctor is crucial, as it is during this visit that the initial level of health of the expectant mother is determined. The basic list of examinations usually includes:

• general blood test
• general urine analysis
• determination of blood type and Rh factor
• glucose level
• HIV test
• syphilis test (RW)
• hepatitis B and C tests

This complex is recommended by the WHO and is used in most countries of the world. It allows you to identify possible risks at an early stage and create an individual pregnancy management plan.

Why is it important to know the Rh factor?

Rh factor affects the compatibility of the mother's and child's blood. If a woman has Rh-negative blood and the child inherits Rh-positive blood from the father, Rh-conflict may occur. The mother's body produces antibodies that can affect future pregnancies.

To avoid this, anti-Rhesus immunoglobulin is administered at certain times. This fully complies with international standards and helps prevent complications.

What infections are checked for during pregnancy?

In addition to the mandatory tests, the doctor may recommend additional tests, especially if this is your first pregnancy or there are risks.

Most often checked:
• toxoplasmosis
• cytomegalovirus
• rubella virus
• herpes virus infection

These infections may be unnoticed by the woman, but affect the development of the fetus. The TORCH panel allows you to determine whether there is immunity or acute infection.

What are double, triple and quadruple tests?

These are screening tests aimed at assessing the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, such as: Down syndrome, Edwards' and other genetic conditions.

The dual test is performed at 11–13 weeks and involves two hormones: hCG and PAPP-A. It is combined with the results of the first ultrasound, which assesses the thickness of the collar zone and some other markers.

Triple and quadruple tests are performed in the second trimester. They analyze more indicators, which allows for a more accurate assessment of potential risks. This is not a diagnosis, but a screening stage - if necessary, the doctor can recommend clarifying methods.

When should NIPT be done?

A non-invasive prenatal test analyzes fetal DNA particles in the mother's blood. It is recommended in the following cases:

• maternal age over 35 years
• increased risks based on the results of the first screening
• family history of genetic abnormalities
• desire to obtain the most accurate non-invasive method

According to reviews by the Mayo Clinic and current international studies, NIPT has a very high accuracy for major chromosomal abnormalities and does not pose a risk to pregnancy.

Why should you have a complete blood count regularly?

This simple test allows you to monitor processes that are especially important during pregnancy:

• hemoglobin level — to detect anemia
• leukocyte count — to assess the functioning of the immune system
• platelet count — to monitor blood clotting

Anemia — a common phenomenon among pregnant women. It can affect well-being, fetal development, and the course of labor, so monitoring of indicators is carried out regularly.

Why is it important to control glucose levels?

Blood sugar levels can help detect gestational diabetes, a condition that develops only during pregnancy. Elevated glucose can affect the baby's weight, the mother's blood pressure, and the risk of complications during childbirth.

A glucose tolerance test (GTT) is used to clarify the diagnosis. It allows you to assess how the body reacts to a glucose load.

What does a urine test show?

This is one of the most informative tests for pregnant women. It can detect:

• kidney dysfunction
• increased protein levels (a sign of preeclampsia)
• signs of bacterial infection
• increased white blood cells or red blood cells

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that requires monitoring and control, so urine tests are performed regularly.

Why are some tests repeated frequently?

A pregnant woman's body changes every week. The doctor monitors parameters that can affect the development of the fetus - hemoglobin, blood pressure, kidney function, sugar level. Frequent tests allow you to avoid complications and quickly respond to any changes.

What tests are done in the third trimester?

In the final stages of pregnancy, the following are performed:

• general blood test
• general urine analysis
• coagulogram
• Group B streptococcus test
• sometimes — liver function tests and ferritin levels

The test for group B streptococcus is very important because if the result is positive, prophylaxis is used during childbirth to reduce the risk of infections in the newborn.

The final stage of pregnancy is the time when the doctor takes into account all previous results, individual risks, and the mother's health characteristics and forms the optimal plan for preparing for childbirth.