Last updated on March 5th, 2024 at 07:09 pm
What other tests should I have to make sure my pregnancy is healthy?
It’s crucial to know about potential issues early on for a healthy pregnancy. As they say, prevention is better than cure!
- Monitoring Your Health: At the start of pregnancy, your general health is checked through booking blood tests. These tests include checking blood pressure for any rise, testing urine for infections and protein, and checking for anemia at 28 weeks.
- Tracking Baby’s Growth: As your baby grows, the size of your uterus, often referred to as the “bump,” is measured to ensure proper growth. However, an ultrasound scan is the most accurate way to monitor baby’s development.
- Screening for Abnormalities: While most pregnancies result in healthy babies, screening tests are available to assess the risk of conditions like spina bifida or Down’s syndrome. These tests provide risk assessments but not definitive diagnoses.
- Ultrasound Scanning: Ultrasound scans are used to check the fetus’s size, detect complications, and identify physical abnormalities like cleft lip. They are crucial in providing insights into the baby’s health.
- Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan: This test, usually done around 11-13 weeks, assesses the risk of Down’s syndrome by measuring fluid thickness at the baby’s neck. It’s essential to have this test done accurately by experienced professionals for reliable results.
- Diagnostic Tests: If needed, diagnostic tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) may be recommended to provide detailed analysis of the baby’s genetic material.
By undergoing these tests, you can ensure the best possible care for you and your baby during pregnancy.
