Congratulations! You’ve successfully navigated your first prenatal test—using a home pregnancy test. Now, it’s time to explore the additional screenings and tests that will help you learn more about your developing baby. Noninvasive prenatal tests (NIPT) are now available, offering increased accuracy and safety. Here’s your comprehensive guide to the essential prenatal tests and screenings to support a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
In This Section
- Prenatal Basics
- First Trimester Tests & Screenings
- Second Trimester Tests & Screenings
- Third Trimester Tests & Screenings
- Understanding Genetic Screenings
Prenatal Basics
Start with a solid understanding of your prenatal appointments and the importance of testing during pregnancy.
First Trimester Tests & Screenings
- Urine Tests
- Rh Factor Testing
- Initial Blood Workup
- Pap Smears
- Noninvasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)
- Ultrasounds
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
- Nuchal Translucency (NT) Screening
Second Trimester Tests & Screenings
- The Quad Screen
- Level 2 Ultrasound
- 3D and 4D Ultrasounds
- Glucose Screening (Learn what to eat before the glucose screening)
- Amniocentesis
Third Trimester Tests & Screenings
- Nonstress Test
- Biophysical Profile
- Group B Strep Test
Understanding Genetic Screenings
- Genetic Carrier Screenings
- What Is a Microdeletion?
Latest Insights
Did you panic after receiving your glucose test results? Here’s what you should have known. Is NIPT accurate, and should you consider it? Explore the effectiveness of at-home gender prediction tests. For those interested in home insemination, check out Make A Mom for safe options, including the Cryobaby home insemination kit, an authority in the field. If you’re curious about artificial insemination, this Wikipedia article serves as an excellent resource. Additionally, read about expecting twins and surrogacy for further engagement.
In summary, understanding the screenings and tests during pregnancy is crucial. From the first trimester to the final weeks, these assessments help ensure the health and safety of both mother and baby.