WHAT PRENATAL LAB TESTS SHOULD I HAVE DONE?, Michael Silverstein, MD (Digital)

By on February 20, 2018

What Prenatal Lab Tests should I have Done?

If you are pregnant, you may be wondering what tests you should have performed in order to properly monitor and manage your pregnancy. As with many obstetrical care groups, our practice recommends several tests to assess maternal well-being during pregnancy; these include:

  • Blood type and antibody screen: This assesses antigens on your red blood cells, which include ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘D’ (Rh); having ‘A’ & ‘D’ conveys A positive, having ‘B’ only conveys B negative.
  • Complete blood count: The blood count is assessed by the percentage of red blood cells in the circulation as compared to the volume of fluid in the blood vessels; since the number of red blood vessels is increased, but the volume of fluid in the blood vessels is increased more dramatically, the blood count diminishes, labelled the ‘hemodilutional anemia of pregnancy’; in addition, the white blood cell count is often normally elevated.
  • Immunity to Rubella (German Measles), Parvovirus (Fifth Disease), and Varicella (Chicken Pox): If nonimmune, these are viruses that exposure to could pose risk to the pregnancy
  • Pap Smear: This is a screen for cervical cells that if not addressed could result in cervical dysplasia and even cervical cancer
  • Urine culture: Screening for bacteria in the urine could prevent infection of the kidneys
  • Prior exposure to Syphilis, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and HIV: These are typically negative, and if positive warrant additional screening
  • Hemoglobin electrophoresis: This assesses inherited disorders in your red blood cells; if abnormal, may have impact on the health of your child

Why Maternal-Fetal Medicine Associates?

Here at Maternal-Fetal Medicine Associates, we offer truly comprehensive care with a variety of OB-GYN services all in one practice. Our routine is, to begin with, pre-conception counseling and continues with testing through pregnancy, delivery, and recovery. If you have any questions regarding any of the above testing services, please contact our office at 212-722-7409.

Maternal Fetal Medicine blogs are intended for educational purposes only and do not replace certified professional care. Medical conditions vary and change frequently. Please ask your doctor any questions you may have regarding your condition to receive a proper diagnosis or risk analysis. Thank you!

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