5 Key Blood Tests Done in Early Pregnancy
Blood tests are important for identifying potential health issues that might affect the mother or the developing baby, and for checking for carrier status for genetic conditions.
These tests can include a full blood count (FBC), blood group and Rhesus (Rh) type, and tests for infections like rubella, toxoplasmosis, and hepatitis.
5 Key Blood Tests Done in Early Pregnancy
- Full Blood Count (FBC): Checks for anaemia and other blood disorders – ensures you’re not low in iron or have other blood disorders
- Blood Group and Rhesus (Rh) Type: Checks your blood group and ensures compatibility with your baby. Determines if the mother is Rh negative, which can lead to complications during pregnancy if not managed
- Haemoglobin Electrophoresis: Screens for sickle cell and thalassemia, inherited blood disorders. This is particularly important in Black, Asian and Mediterranean women
- Infections: Tests for rubella (to see if you’re protected against rubella (German measles), which can harm your baby), toxoplasmosis, hepatitis B and C, syphilis, HIV, and cytomegalovirus
- Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH): Checks your thyroid gland is working properly, which is important for your baby’s development.
Some women may also need
- Genetic Carrier Screening: Checks for carrier status for conditions like cystic fibrosis, spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), and thalassemias
- Hormone Levels: May include tests for FSH, LH, progesterone, prolactin, to assess fertility and overall health.
