Antenatal

Routine blood tests during the first antenatal (or prenatal) visit help ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. These tests can detect conditions or infections that might affect the pregnancy. The specific tests might vary slightly based on the healthcare system, region, or individual risk factors, but generally, the following blood tests are commonly performed during the first antenatal visit:

  1. Full Blood Count (FBC): This tests for anemia and gives information about red and white blood cells and platelets.
  2. Blood Type and Rh Factor: It’s important to know the mother’s blood type (A, B, AB, or O) and Rh factor (positive or negative) as it can impact the pregnancy if the baby has a different blood type.
  3. Antibody Screen: This test checks for unusual antibodies in the mother’s blood that could affect the pregnancy.
    1. HIV: Early detection and management can reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
    2. Hepatitis B: Babies born to mothers with hepatitis B can be given treatment soon after birth to decrease their chance of getting the virus.
    3. Syphilis: Untreated syphilis can cause significant issues during pregnancy and to the baby, so it’s crucial to detect and treat it early.
    4. Rubella (German Measles) Immunity: Women who are not immune to rubella and get infected during pregnancy can pass the disease to their unborn child, which can lead to severe congenital abnormalities.
    5. Varicella (Chickenpox) Immunity: Knowing a woman’s immunity can be important because contracting chickenpox during pregnancy can pose risks to the fetus.
  4. Urinalysis: A urine sample can be checked for protein (a possible sign of preeclampsia), sugar (a sign of diabetes), and signs of urinary tract infections.
  5. Thyroid Function Tests: This might be done if there’s a history of thyroid disease or symptoms suggestive of thyroid dysfunction.
  6. Serum Ferritin (Iron studies): This test measures the amount of stored iron in the body and is a good indicator of the body’s iron reserves. A low ferritin level indicates iron-deficiency anemia.
  7. Chlamydia and Gonorrhea: These sexually transmitted infections can cause complications during pregnancy and can be passed to the baby during delivery.

24-28 weeks

Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT): Screen for gestational diabetes. May be done earlier if risk factors.