PREGNANCY FOLLOW-UP

When there is a suspicion of pregnancy and menstrual delay, a pregnancy test in urine should be performed first. A pregnancy test in blood( β-hCG) can also be performed in suspected cases.,

If there is no evidence of bleeding, severe pain and faintness, the doctor visit  should be delayed at least two weeks after the date of mestrual delay.

Routine pregnancy follow-up and tests should be started after the fetal heart beats are seen

If possible, counseling  on nutrition during pregnancy from an  experienced dietitian would be helpful

There is no consensus on the extent of blood and urine tests to be performed during pregnancy. I order the following  tests if there is no evidence of additional disease or finding.
     - Whole Blood Count
     - Ferritin (gives information about iron stores)
     - Blood Type
     - Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, HIV Screening
     - Toxoplasma IgG and IgM
     - Rubella  IgG and IgM
     - CMV (Cytomegalo Virus) IgG and IgM
     - Urinalysis
     - Urine Culture (Midstream Urine)
     - TSH
     - Vitamin D
     - Glucose
 Important Weeks and Tests

11-14 weeks:  Early Anatomy Scan, Screening for Chromosomal Annormalities, Screening for Preeclempsia

18-23 weeks: Detailed Ultrasonography ( Level 2 Ultrasonography)

24-28 weeks: Screening for Gestational Diabetes

Monthly growth follow-up of the fetus with ultrasonography in those without increased risk

35-37 weeks, in regard to vaginal birth; manual vaginal examination to evaluate the bony structures of pelvis and vaginal culture for screening Group B Streptococcus