Pregnancy is a long and exciting journey of approximately 40 weeks. During this period, conducting certain important tests both before and during pregnancy is vital to protect the health of both the expectant mother and the baby. Monitoring physiological and hormonal changes throughout pregnancy should be supported by regular check-ups to ensure the process runs smoothly. Regular doctor visits and check-ups contribute to both the mother and baby's completion of this journey healthily.
Tests Conducted During Pregnancy
The pregnancy period is a process where regular monitoring and tests are highly important to protect the health of both the mother and the baby. In the pre-pregnancy period, consulting a doctor and getting necessary tests during the planning phase is a crucial step for a healthy start to pregnancy. During pregnancy, tests conducted at specific weeks help detect existing or potential health issues and allow for early intervention.
Key tests conducted throughout pregnancy include:
Initial Check-ups: At the beginning of pregnancy, a smear test, breast examination, TORCH screening, CMV infection screening, complete blood count, and thyroid function tests are performed.
- 11-14 Weeks: A double screening test is conducted to evaluate possible genetic risks.
- 16-20 Weeks: Triple and quadruple screening tests are performed.
- 20-22 Weeks: A detailed ultrasound is used to thoroughly examine the baby's anatomical structure.
- 24-28 Weeks: A glucose loading test is applied for gestational diabetes screening.
- 35-40 Weeks: Bacterial screening and a Non-Stress Test (NST) observe the preparation process for birth.
The pregnancy process is a period where regular monitoring and check-ups are extremely important for both the expectant mother and the baby. In this process, three important screening tests are conducted to monitor the health of the mother and the baby and identify potential risks in advance.
First, in the first trimester covering the initial three months of pregnancy, the "double screening test" is conducted. This test helps evaluate the baby for chromosomal diseases. In the second trimester, between the 4th and 6th months of pregnancy, the "triple" or "quadruple screening test" is applied. These tests are used to evaluate the baby's development and certain genetic risks in a more detailed manner. Lastly, in the third trimester, generally during the last three months of pregnancy, a "diabetes screening" is performed. This screening is crucial to determine the risk of gestational diabetes in the expectant mother.
Regularly conducting these tests carries great importance in having a healthy pregnancy process and preventing risks that may arise during childbirth.
Check-ups to Be Mindful of During Monitoring
Besides the tests conducted during pregnancy, certain regular measurements carried out under a doctor's supervision are very important. During each examination, the mother's blood pressure, weight, abdominal circumference, and the baby's heart rate are evaluated. These basic check-ups allow observation of the mother's general condition and help preempt potential issues that may arise during pregnancy. Serious complications such as preeclampsia can be detected early and managed through these regular check-ups.
Besides the necessary tests during pregnancy, the lifestyle and dietary habits of the expectant mother should also be closely monitored. Supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D, and iron play a significant role in the healthy development of the baby. Therefore, measuring blood values at intervals directed by the doctor allows for proper intervention in cases of vitamin deficiencies.
Why is Infection Monitoring During Pregnancy Important?
Among the tests conducted during pregnancy, infection screenings also hold significant importance. Some infections may severely affect the baby, even if they show no symptoms in the expectant mother. TORCH screening, conducted against infections such as toxoplasma, rubella, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and herpes, should therefore be performed early.
The screenings included in the tests required during pregnancy help identify risks that may threaten the development of the baby's organs in advance. Some viruses, like CMV infection, should be carefully monitored as they may lead to lasting effects such as congenital deafness. During this process, the tests required during pregnancy determine the mother's immunity status, and necessary precautions are taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between double, triple, and quadruple screening tests during pregnancy?
The double screening test, conducted between the 11th and 14th weeks of pregnancy, evaluates chromosomal abnormalities such as Down syndrome. The triple and quadruple screening tests are performed between the 16th and 20th weeks. In the triple test, three biochemical values are assessed, whereas the quadruple test adds inhibin-A to these three values for a more detailed genetic risk analysis. While these tests do not provide a definitive diagnosis, they can guide further diagnosis.
Is the glucose loading test during pregnancy harmful?
No, the glucose loading test conducted during pregnancy is safe for the health of both the mother and the baby. The glucose loading test is particularly important for the early detection of gestational diabetes. Without detecting diabetes, complications such as high birth weight in the baby, preterm birth, or postnatal hypoglycemia may develop.
How many ultrasounds should be conducted during pregnancy?
It is recommended to have at least three detailed ultrasounds during pregnancy: in the first trimester to confirm the pregnancy, in the second trimester (20-22 weeks) to evaluate detailed fetal anatomy, and in the last trimester to obtain information about the baby's development and placenta condition. However, in some cases, the doctor may recommend more frequent ultrasounds depending on the health status of the mother and the baby.
Why are preconception tests important?
Tests conducted for women planning to become pregnant ensure that the pregnancy is healthier. Determining blood type, thyroid function tests, infection screenings, and general health check-ups help identify potential risks in advance.