During pregnancy, several blood tests are routinely performed to assess the health of both the mother and the baby. These tests screen for various conditions and ensure a healthy pregnancy journey.
Here's a breakdown of the common blood tests conducted during pregnancy:
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Full Blood Count (FBC): This test measures the different types of blood cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets). It helps detect anemia, infection, and other blood disorders.
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Blood Group and Rhesus (Rh) Factor: This determines your blood type (A, B, AB, or O) and Rh factor (positive or negative). Knowing your Rh factor is crucial because if you are Rh-negative and the baby is Rh-positive, you may need an injection of Rh immunoglobulin to prevent complications in future pregnancies.
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Screening for Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia: These tests check for inherited blood disorders that can affect the baby's health.
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Infectious Disease Screening: Tests are performed to screen for infectious diseases that can be harmful to the baby, including:
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Hepatitis B: A liver infection.
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Syphilis: A sexually transmitted infection.
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HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): A virus that attacks the immune system.
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Down's Syndrome, Edwards' Syndrome, and Patau's Syndrome Screening: These tests assess the risk of the baby having these chromosomal conditions. These are often part of a combined screening test that includes blood tests and ultrasound scans.
- Note: These tests provide a risk assessment, not a diagnosis. Further diagnostic testing (such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling) may be recommended based on the screening results.
