Prenatal testing includes all of the tests done during pregnancy to monitor the health of both mother and child. There are several different categories of prenatal tests: some are performed early in pregnancy, some late, and some throughout. There are other prenatal tests that moms-to-be only need to take if they have certain risk factors, or screen positively on a routine test.
Tests performed throughout pregnancy
According to the March of Dimes, you’ll probably have a few tests done at each prenatal visit: a blood pressure check; a urine check; and possibly a blood test. You’ll also be weighed at each appointment to make sure all is progressing well.
Tests performed early in pregnancy
Certain prenatal tests are more likely to be universal than others. These include urine and blood tests for:
- HIV and STIs
- Hepatitis B and C
- Blood type
- Rubella
You may also undergo a First Trimester Screen. This screen combines two blood tests with an ultrasound to screen for the risk of trisomies 18 (Edwards’ syndrome) or 21 (Down syndrome). This screening also tests for neural tube defects like spina bifida, which can be dangerous and may need treatment soon after birth. These tests are often performed between the 10th and 14th weeks of pregnancy, and are optional.
If there are red flags in this screen (you’ll receive either a ‘positive’ or ‘negative,’ as well as a probability), your healthcare provider may recommend a diagnostic test, like an amniocentesis, as a follow-up. It’s important to note that the First Trimester Screen is just that: a screen. It is not a diagnostic test, and most who screen positive receive do not show positive results in the diagnostic follow-up.
Other non-routine tests that may be performed in early pregnancy include carrier screening, noninvasive prenatal testing, or a chorionic villus sampling.
Carrier screening checks for the possibility of passing on different recessive genetic disorders, such as cystic fibrosis and Fragile X.
Noninvasive prenatal testing is a newer screening method that looks for a fetus’ DNA in the mother’s blood. As it is a screen, diagnostic testing is still needed to confirm any positive results.
Chorionic villus sampling (CVS) is typically only recommended for those who have risk factors that make a genetic disorder more likely, as the test involves a slight chance of miscarriage.
Tests performed later in pregnancy
During the second trimester, you’ll likely undergo the following tests:
- Quad screen or penta screen (including MSAFP)
- Ultrasound
- Glucose screening
You may also have an amniocentesis performed between 15 and 20 weeks if any earlier screens came back positive, and if you elect to do so. Like the CVS, this test involves a slight risk of miscarriage.
The quad screen checks for four different substances in the blood, and provides another opportunity to evaluate the likelihood of a baby having certain birth defects. This test is done between 15 and 22 weeks pregnant.
An ultrasound (anatomy scan) is generally performed around 20 weeks, and is a great way to measure a baby’s growth. Some women receive an updated due date at this time. Your cervical length may also be measured at this point because a ‘short’ cervix is a known risk factor for preterm delivery.
All women undergo a glucose screen at around 24 to 28 weeks, which is used to screen for gestational diabetes. This involves drinking a sugary substance and seeing how your body processes it. If the screen comes back positive, you’ll be given a glucose tolerance test as soon as possible. A gestational diabetes diagnosis may be made at that point.
Lastly, you’ll probably be screened for group B strep around 35 to 37 weeks. This bacteria can be passed on to a baby during delivery, so if you test positive, you’ll likely take medication to control the infection and keep your baby safe, including IV antibiotics when you show up to the hospital in labor.
Your benefits
Many of these tests are fully covered by your Independence Administrators plan.
You can learn more about your preventive medicine and prenatal benefits by calling Customer Service at the number listed on the back of your medical ID card, or by tapping the button below to visit Independence Administrators’ website.
