From the pre-pregnancy period to the 40th week of pregnancy, there are quite a few important tests that actually constitute a critical part of pregnancy monitoring. So what are those tests, and what is important to know about them before you schedule a consultation with a professor of obstetrics and gynecology? In the following lines, we will review this with you.
One of the most important tests you need to know before receiving a consultation with Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology This is a genetic screening test. A genetic screening test is actually a series of genetic tests designed to identify couples at risk for certain hereditary diseases, a risk that the couple may pass on to the fetus.
As part of a genetic screening, carriers are actually tested for genetic defects and certain hereditary diseases. This test is recommended to be performed before pregnancy, but can also be performed during it, although it is worth noting that among couples who have not previously had this done, it is recommended to perform the test as early in the pregnancy as possible.
Another equally important test, which is performed towards the first trimester of pregnancy (between the first week and the end of the 13th week), is a nurse follow-up test.
This test actually checks blood pressure, weight, and also measures protein in the mother's urine and edema. This test is performed once a month until the 36th week of pregnancy. From the 36th week to the 40th week of pregnancy, the test will be performed once every two weeks.
The first ultrasound examination during pregnancy actually checks the position of the gestational sac. In addition, the fetal heart rate is examined, and during this examination the number of fetuses is also verified along with the gestational age. The examination is performed via abdominal, vaginal or combined access - depending on the opinion of the attending physician or professor of obstetrics and gynecology.
Typically, when it comes to the early weeks of pregnancy, the approach will be vaginal. The first ultrasound is usually performed between the 6th and 12th week of pregnancy.
Other important tests at these stages are blood and urine tests. During these tests, a blood count is checked, as well as the blood type of the expectant mother along with the amount of Rh antibodies. In addition, a VDRL test (for detecting syphilis) is also performed, along with tests for other sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV and HBV.
Furthermore, fasting blood sugar tests are also performed at this stage. Along with all of these, a general urinalysis and urine culture will also be performed, as well as a thyroid function test.
In some cases, the expectant mother will be sent for additional tests, but this depends largely on the discretion of the treating team. For example, for testing the immune status against certain viruses or other tests depending on the patient's medical condition. Like the first trimester ultrasound, this series of tests is most often performed between the 6th and 12th week of pregnancy.
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