Routine Prenatal Lab Tests
At one of the first visits to the clinic, you will be asked to have a panel of lab tests performed on blood and urine. These tests are useful tools that enable our practitioners to assess the general health of the mother and to determine health risks to the baby.
Blood Tests Include:
CBC – (Complete Blood Count) - This test includes a white blood cell count (to look for infections or the ability to fight an infection), a hemoglobin and hematocrit (to measure iron levels), and a platelet count (indicates the bloods ability to clot).
Blood Type, Rh Factor and Antibody Screen – These tests are indicators of any incompatibility between the mother’s blood and the baby’s blood.
Hepatitis B – There are several types of hepatitis. Hepatitis B is a blood borne disease that can damage the liver. It could also be passed on to the baby.
Rubella Antibody - Presence of the rubella antibody is an indicator of immunity to the virus that causes German Measles. This immunity is obtained by exposure to the virus, either by past infection or vaccination.
Screening tests for Sexually Transmitted Infection:
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea – Performed on a vaginal swab, that is taken during the pelvic exam.
RPR – This is a blood test for syphilis.
HIV Type I&II Antibody – Antibodies to the Human Immunodeficency Virus indicate an exposure to the virus. This blood test is optional and you must give consent for it to be performed. This test is strongly recommended for all pregnant women, especially first time mothers, those with new partners, those working in occupations that could permit exposure to blood or those involved in high-risk behaviors.
Urine Testing:
Urine Culture – A test that is used to determine the presence of any infection in the bladder or urinary tract.
Dipstick testing is performed at each visit, to test for protein and sugar. Protein in the urine indicates stress on the kidneys and presence of sugar could indicate the onset of Gestational Diabetes.
PAP Smear: A Pap smear will usually be performed at the first pelvic exam if the mother has not had one performed in the last year. Pap tests are used to detect abnormal cells on the cervix that may indicate a pre-cancerous or cancerous condition.
There will be other times when you are asked to have more tests performed. These tests will be explained to you as they are requested.