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What to Expect: Your Guide to Prenatal Tests and Screenings

As an expecting mother, ensuring that both you and your baby are healthy is your top priority. Along the way, expectant parents may encounter a variety of prenatal tests and screenings designed to monitor the health of the mother and the developing baby. They help you keep track of your pregnancy’s progress and catch any potential concerns early.

Today, the OB/GYN Associates of Alabama will break down what to expect from common prenatal tests and screenings, why they’re important, and how they can support a healthy pregnancy.

Types of Prenatal Tests & Screenings

Prenatal tests are there to monitor your health and your baby’s development. These tests help identify any risks or complications early. Let’s look at some common types of tests you might encounter:

Blood Tests
Blood work is standard during pregnancy and checks for things like:

  • Anemia
  • Rh factor
  • Gestational diabetes
  • Infectious diseases (like HIV or hepatitis B)
  • Genetic disorders

Ultrasounds
These use sound waves to create images of your baby, and they help:

  • Confirm your due date
  • Track your baby’s growth
  • Check the placenta’s health
  • Detect possible birth defects

Nuchal Translucency Screening
This screening, performed between 11 and 14 weeks, uses an ultrasound and blood test to assess the risk of certain chromosomal conditions, such as Down syndrome.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
This test takes a small sample of the placenta to check for chromosomal conditions or genetic disorders. It’s done between 10 and 13 weeks.

Amniocentesis
This test, done between 15 and 20 weeks, involves removing a small amount of amniotic fluid to test for genetic conditions.

Glucose Screening
Between 24 and 28 weeks, you may undergo a glucose test to check for gestational diabetes, which can affect both you and your baby if left untreated.

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Screening
Performed between 35 and 37 weeks, this test checks for a bacterial infection that could cause complications for your baby during delivery.

Not every test is necessary for every pregnancy. Your doctor will recommend which tests are proper for you, depending on your health, medical history, and risk factors.

What is Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT)?

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) is a leading-edge option in prenatal care. It analyzes small pieces of fetal DNA circulating in your blood to check for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome.

Here’s why NIPT is so helpful:

  • High accuracy: It provides more accurate results than traditional screening methods.
  • Early detection: It can be done as early as 10 weeks, offering you information earlier in the pregnancy.
  • Non-invasive: It only requires a blood draw, meaning there are no risks to you or your baby.

Though NIPT is highly accurate, it’s still a screening, not a diagnostic test. If NIPT shows an abnormal result, further tests may be needed to confirm the findings

Common Questions About Prenatal Tests

  1. Are all prenatal tests required?
    No, you don’t have to undergo every test. Your doctor will recommend tests based on your specific situation.
  2. Does insurance cover prenatal tests?
    Many insurance plans cover prenatal tests, but it’s always a good idea to check with your provider about what’s covered and your out-of-pocket costs.
  3. What if a test shows a potential issue?
    If a test comes back with an abnormal result, your doctor will go over the findings and may suggest additional testing. Remember, many tests are screenings, which means they assess the risk of an issue, not a definitive diagnosis.
  4. Are tests risky for my baby?
    Most prenatal tests, like blood tests and ultrasounds, are non-invasive and don’t pose risks to your baby. Some invasive tests, such as amniocentesis, carry a small risk of complications, which your doctor will discuss with you beforehand.

Prenatal Care in Birmingham: OB/GYN Associates of Alabama

The first step to ensuring a healthy pregnancy is finding a healthcare provider you can trust. At the OB/GYN Associates of Alabama, we offer excellent prenatal care, with a team of skilled doctors ready to support you at every step. We provide a full range of services, including ultrasounds and advanced screenings, ensuring you have the best care possible.

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Experience Personalized Prenatal Care at OB/GYN Associates of Alabama – Schedule Your Appointment Today!

At OB/GYN Associates of Alabama, we’ll provide you with the highest quality prenatal care throughout your pregnancy. Our team of experienced professionals will guide you through each stage, offering personalized support, expert advice, and comprehensive screenings to ensure your and your baby’s well-being. Schedule your appointment today and begin your journey to a healthy, happy pregnancy!

To schedule, you can request an appointment online today or give us a call at (205) 271-1600.

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