The analytics Tests performed during pregnancy play a fundamental role in monitoring and developing the pregnancy. These tests aim to detect possible abnormalities, ensure healthy fetal development and prevent complications for both mother and baby. Every pregnancy is unique, and therefore, rigorous monitoring through medical analysis is essential to ensure the well-being of both.
While calendar While the process of medical appointments can seem overwhelming, understanding the function and relevance of these stages will help you handle them with greater ease and confidence.
Why are pregnancy tests important?
Pregnancy tests are more than just a medical procedure; they are key tools for assessing the mother's health and the baby's proper development. These tests allow us to identify risks potential risks that can be treated in time to ensure a healthy pregnancy. The main reasons include:
- Monitoring of pre-existing diseases: Problems such as anemia, gestational diabetes or infections can be detected and managed before they become serious complications.
- Detection of genetic abnormalities: Specific tests help identify possible chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, such as Down syndrome.
- Infection prevention: Some infections, if left unchecked, can seriously affect a baby's development. Examples include toxoplasmosis and rubella.
- Preparation for childbirth: Blood compatibility tests and detection of bacteria such as group B streptococcus are essential for safe delivery planning.
Analytics in the first trimester of pregnancy
The first trimester, spanning from conception to week 12, marks the beginning of more extensive medical monitoring. During this stage, testing focuses on establishing a foundation for pregnancy and detecting any early complications that could affect the baby's development or the mother's health.
Basic blood tests and serology
- Blood group and Rh factor: This test is crucial to determine blood compatibility between mother and fetus. In case of incompatibility (Rh negative mother and Rh positive baby), preventive measures are taken to avoid complications in future pregnancies.
- Complete blood count: It evaluates parameters such as hemoglobin and red blood cell levels to identify anemia or any other imbalance.
- Immunity to infectious diseases: It includes testing for rubella, toxoplasmosis, hepatitis B and C, HIV and syphilis. This allows immediate action to be taken if a risk of transmission to the baby is detected.
Urine analysis
Urinalysis is an important tool for detecting urinary tract infections, measuring protein levels (indicative of possible kidney problems) and assessing the presence of glucose, which could point to an early risk of gestational diabetes.
Combined first trimester screening
This screening includes a biochemical analysis (measuring PAPP-A protein and free beta-hCG in the blood) and an ultrasound to assess the nuchal translucency of the fetus. These data are combined to calculate the risk of abnormalities such as Down syndrome or Edwards syndrome.
First trimester ultrasound
Usually performed between weeks 11 and 13, this ultrasound confirms the viability of the pregnancy, determines the number of fetuses and more accurately calculates the estimated delivery date.
Second quarter analytics
During the second trimester (weeks 13 to 26), the focus shifts to the monitoring fetal development and the detection of specific gestational complications.
Hemogram and biochemistry
A new blood count is essential to check whether iron and hemoglobin levels remain within healthy ranges. In addition, ferritin and iron are measured. hepatic transaminases.
O'Sullivan test
This glucose test, performed between weeks 24 and 28, is key to detect gestational diabetesIt consists of ingesting a glucose solution and measuring blood sugar levels one hour later.
Morphological ultrasound
Performed between weeks 18 and 22, this ultrasound analyzes fetal anatomy in detail, detecting possible malformations and evaluating the baby's growth.
Third quarter analytics
As delivery approaches, testing focuses on ensuring everything is ready for birth and detecting last-minute complications.
Group B Streptococcus Test
This test is performed between weeks 35 and 37 using a vaginal and rectal swab. It detects the presence of bacteria that, although harmless to the mother, can be dangerous for the baby during delivery.
Coagulation study
This test evaluates the blood's ability to clot, which is crucial for planning delivery, especially if a cesarean section is anticipated.
Third trimester ultrasound
This ultrasound evaluates the position of the baby, the amount of amniotic fluid and the state of the placenta, ensuring that everything is in optimal conditions for delivery.
Pregnancy tests not only provide valuable information about the health of the mother and baby, but also allow for early intervention in case of complications. Adequate monitoring at each stage of pregnancy ensures that the process runs smoothly and prepares future parents for the arrival of their baby.
