Common Tests and Screenings After Pregnancy Confirmation Date:05 Nov 2024
Tests After Confirming Pregnancy: Frequently Asked Questions
Direct answers based on the Boy or Girl · Pregnancy Community guide. Your gynecologist decides which tests you need and when; this information is educational.
The most common ones your doctor orders after confirmation are:
- Blood tests: complete blood count, blood type and Rh factor, rubella, HIV and hepatitis B.
- Initial ultrasound (transvaginal or abdominal).
- Infection screening: urinalysis and STI testing.
- Glucose test for gestational diabetes.
- Pap smear, if not done recently.
- Hormone levels: hCG and progesterone.
- Genetic testing (optional).
Your provider decides which ones and when based on your case. You can prepare with an online consultation with Dr. Arnaldo Ojeda.
Doctors usually start with blood tests (complete blood count, blood type and Rh factor, rubella, HIV and hepatitis B) and a urinalysis, along with the initial ultrasound to confirm the location of the gestational sac and estimate gestational age. Your gynecologist sets the exact order.
- Complete blood count: red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets, to detect possible anemia.
- Blood type and Rh factor: whether you are Rh positive or negative, important to prevent incompatibility issues with the baby.
- Rubella, HIV and hepatitis B: to determine whether you have been exposed to infections that could affect the pregnancy.
Because it determines whether your blood is Rh positive or negative, which is important to prevent incompatibility problems with the baby. It is one of the initial blood tests of pregnancy; your doctor will explain the follow-up if you are Rh negative.
It evaluates red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets and helps detect possible anemia, which is common at this stage. It is part of the first set of tests after confirming pregnancy.
Generally between weeks 6 and 9 of pregnancy. It can be transvaginal or abdominal, and it confirms the location and development of the gestational sac and estimates the baby's gestational age.
To confirm the location and development of the gestational sac and estimate gestational age. It is the first image of the pregnancy and guides the rest of the follow-up.
Both are options for the initial ultrasound. In the early weeks the doctor chooses whichever gives the best view of the gestational sac; the decision depends on the stage of pregnancy and professional judgment.
It measures levels of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), the pregnancy hormone, along with progesterone, to evaluate the health and development of the pregnancy in its early stages. Interpreting the values is up to your doctor.
Together with hCG, progesterone helps assess the health and development of the pregnancy in its early stages. Your gynecologist decides whether it is needed and how to interpret the result.
It detects urinary tract infections and measures protein levels, which could indicate kidney problems or high blood pressure. It is a simple, frequent test during pregnancy.
To detect sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis and chlamydia, which can affect the baby's health. It is done routinely and allows timely treatment if needed.
It is an evaluation of blood sugar levels to detect gestational diabetes. It is generally performed in the second trimester.
Only if it has not been done recently. In that case your doctor may recommend it to detect abnormal cells in the cervix. It is not mandatory for every pregnant woman.
No, it is optional. It screens for chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome and other genetic conditions, and is performed based on the mother's age or risk factors. The decision is made together with your doctor.
When risk factors exist or depending on the mother's age. Your gynecologist will explain the available options, what they detect and what each result means before you decide.
Bring all results to every appointment and keep them in one place. The Boy or Girl Medical History lets you store your lab results, ultrasounds and dates so they are always on hand and you are better prepared for each visit.
Your OB-GYN. Boy or Girl offers an online consultation with Dr. Arnaldo Ojeda, a professionals directory and a support community with other expecting mothers. If you are still unsure whether you are pregnant, read the guide on pregnancy symptoms.
Keep your lab results and ultrasounds in one place
With the Boy or Girl Medical History your results and dates are ready for every appointment.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not replace consultation, evaluation, diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other qualified healthcare professional. In a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.