Pregnancy is an incredible journey, and as your baby grows, prenatal testing helps make sure they’re developing healthily along the way. Each test serves a purpose to give you and your provider peace of mind about your baby’s health. Here’s a simple, friendly guide to the types of tests you may encounter and what each one does!
First Trimester: Getting a Baseline
In the early weeks of pregnancy, your provider may suggest a few key tests to get a baseline for your health and to gather some early information about your baby.
- Blood Tests and Urine Tests
- What it is: These are usually done at your first prenatal visit. Blood tests look at things like your blood type and immunity to certain infections, while urine tests check for infections or other markers of health.
- Why it’s done: To make sure you and your baby have a healthy start and to spot any special needs early.
- Ultrasound for Dating
- What it is: An early ultrasound to confirm the baby’s heartbeat, growth, and due date.
- Why it’s done: To get an accurate timeline for your pregnancy and see that baby is developing as expected.
- First Trimester Screening (FTS)
- What it is: This combines an ultrasound with a blood test to look for the baby’s risk of conditions like Down syndrome.
- Why it’s done: It gives early insight into possible genetic conditions so you can decide if more tests are needed.
Second Trimester: More Detailed Checks
As pregnancy continues, you’ll be offered additional screenings to look more closely at baby’s development.
- Quad Screen (or Triple Screen)
- What it is: A blood test around 15-20 weeks that checks for signs of genetic conditions or certain birth defects.
- Why it’s done: To take a closer look at your baby’s risk for genetic conditions and physical issues, like spina bifida.
- Anatomy Scan (20-Week Ultrasound)
- What it is: A detailed ultrasound that shows baby’s heart, spine, organs, and limbs—and it’s often the first time you get to see baby’s face!
- Why it’s done: To make sure baby is developing as they should and to spot any physical issues.
- Glucose Screening Test
- What it is: This checks for gestational diabetes (a type of diabetes that some women get during pregnancy). You’ll drink a sweet drink, and your blood will be tested an hour later.
- Why it’s done: To see how your body handles sugar and to make sure baby is growing at a healthy rate.
Optional Tests Throughout Pregnancy
These tests are optional and usually offered if you have certain risk factors, like age or family history.
- Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
- What it is: A blood test that looks at your baby’s DNA to check for genetic conditions like Down syndrome. It can also reveal baby’s sex if you’d like to know!
- Why it’s done: It’s a very accurate way to screen for genetic conditions and can be done as early as 10 weeks.
- Amniocentesis
- What it is: A test where a small amount of amniotic fluid (the fluid around the baby) is taken to test for genetic conditions.
- Why it’s done: To get a clear answer about genetic conditions, though it’s only done if earlier tests show higher risks since it carries a tiny risk to the baby.
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
- What it is: A test where a small sample of placenta tissue is taken to check for genetic conditions.
- Why it’s done: Like amniocentesis, it’s used to get specific genetic information early on, usually if there’s a higher risk.
Third Trimester: Checking on Baby’s Progress
As you near your due date, some final tests make sure baby is still thriving and that your body is getting ready for labor.
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Test
- What it is: A swab test to check for a common bacteria (GBS) that many people have. If you test positive, you’ll get antibiotics during labor to keep baby safe.
- Why it’s done: GBS is harmless to you but can be risky for newborns, so testing ensures baby will be protected.
- Non-Stress Test (NST)
- What it is: If you’re past your due date or have certain conditions, your provider may check your baby’s heart rate to make sure they’re getting enough oxygen.
- Why it’s done: NSTs show how baby’s heart responds to movement, helping confirm that baby is doing well as you approach delivery.
- Biophysical Profile (BPP)
- What it is: An ultrasound and NST combined to check baby’s movements, breathing, and amniotic fluid levels.
- Why it’s done: The BPP offers a full picture of baby’s well-being, especially if you’re overdue or need a closer look.
Remember, These Tests Are Here to Help
While it may feel like a lot of tests, each one gives you and your provider helpful information to support a healthy pregnancy. Some tests, like genetic screening, are optional, and your provider will be there to explain each one and answer your questions.
Every test is a tool to help you feel confident in your pregnancy journey, ensuring you and baby are both well supported. Whether you decide to do every test or just the basics, you’re doing a wonderful job in preparing to meet your little one.