Routine Prenatal Tests
During pregnancy, routine tests help us monitor the health of both you and your baby. At Premier Care for Women, we follow guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) to ensure you’re receiving the most up-to-date and evidence-based care.
These tests are a normal part of prenatal care and provide valuable information throughout your pregnancy journey.
What Types of Tests Are Done?
Routine tests can include bloodwork, urine tests, and screenings performed at specific points in pregnancy. Here’s a general overview:
First Trimester Testing
(Performed after pregnancy is confirmed by ultrasound)
- Blood type and Rh factor
- Complete blood count (CBC) – to check for anemia or infection
- Hemoglobin A1c – to assess for undiagnosed diabetes, if indicated
- Rubella immunity – to determine if you are immune to German measles
- Varicella (chickenpox) immunity
- Hepatitis B and C screening
- HIV screening
- Syphilis test
- Sickle cell screening – if indicated based on ethnicity or family history
- Basic chemistry panel – to evaluate kidney and liver function, electrolytes, and glucose
- Urine culture – to check for urinary tract infections
- Chlamydia and Gonorrhea screening
- Pap smear (if due)
- Genetic carrier screening (optional)
Second Trimester Testing:
- Anatomy ultrasound (typically at 18–22 weeks)
- Quad screen or maternal serum screening (optional, if NIPS not done)
- Glucose screening (between 24–28 weeks) – to check for gestational diabetes
- Repeat blood count (CBC) – to monitor for anemia
Third Trimester Testing:
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening (at 36–37 weeks)
- Repeat HIV and syphilis screening – per ACOG guidelines
- Repeat CBC – to check for anemia or infection
- Additional ultrasounds or labs as needed
Additional Testing May Be Recommended If:
- You have a high-risk pregnancy or underlying medical conditions
- You are carrying multiples
- Concerns arise on physical exam or ultrasound
- You choose optional genetic screening or diagnostic testing
Your Questions Are Always Welcome
We understand that testing can feel overwhelming. At Premier Care for Women, we take time to explain each test and what the results mean. Our goal is to keep you informed, supported, and confident every step of the way.