Your first prenatal visits will include tests of your blood, cervical cells, and urine. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a series of exams, including blood tests for: Blood count (CBC) Syphilis Blood type and Rh factor German measles (rubella) immunity Pap smear to screen for cervical cancer Urinalysis to confirm the pregnancy and check for signs of infection HIV test Toxoplasmosis screening Hepatitis B test Sexually transmitted disease screening Sugar/protein level test Your doctor will most likely order the following additional tests to screen for conditions that could endanger you and your baby. For these conditions, early detection is crucial to ensure the best possible treatment: HIV test In some obstetric practices the mother's blood is tested for antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus, which causes AIDS. Toxoplasmosis screening A test for antibodies to toxoplasmosis is very important, especially if you have a pet cat. Toxoplasmosis is an infection that can cause birth defects in babies of mothers who contract it during pregnancy. Eating undercooking meat and being in contact with cat feces are the most common causes of toxoplasmosis exposure. Hepatitis B test Doctors routinely test pregnant women for antibodies to hepatitis B, an infection transmitted through blood transfusions (rarely), shared needles, or transmission of bodily fluids. Hepatitis B, which can ultimately attack and damage the liver, can be passed from a pregnant mother to her unborn baby. Sexually transmitted disease screening In this important screening test, a vaginal swab test is given to check for gonorrhea and chlamydia, sexually transmitted diseases that can cause eye and lung infections in newborns. Sugar/protein level test Sugar in the urine can be a sign of gestational diabetes, a condition of pregnancy wherein blood glucose levels are so high that they endanger the well-being of the fetus. Protein in the urine suggests a pregnancy disease called toxemia, or preeclampsia. If undetected, preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, a rare but life-threatening condition.

The information on this website is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's condition.