Pregnancy Tests and Procedures
Amniocentesis Amniocentesis can provide valuable information about the health of your baby before it is born. Amniocentesis is a procedure used to obtain a small sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. |
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) The chorionic villi are tiny projections of placental tissue that look like fingers and contain the same genetic material as the fetus. Testing may be available for other genetic defects and disorders depending on the family history and availability of lab testing at the time of the procedure. |
Did You Know?
You may have an ultrasound or sonogram during your second prenatal visit, between 12 and 16 weeks, the American Pregnancy Association says. The ultrasound or sonogram will allow you to see your baby. Talk about this with your health care provider ahead of time.
Pregnancy Tests and Procedures
Common Tests During Pregnancy
Certain tests and screenings may be scheduled during your pregnancy. Your health care provider will advise you on which tests you'll need.
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Maternal and Fetal Testing
Women with high-risk pregnancies often need a close watch for potential problems or complications. Many tests and procedures are available to monitor the health of both mother and baby.
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Detailed Test & Procedure Guides
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP)
Alpha-fetoprotein screening is a blood test that measures the level of AFP in the mothers' blood. Abnormal levels may indicate certain problems with the fetus.
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Amniocentesis Procedure
Amniocentesis is a procedure used to obtain a small sample of the amniotic fluid that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. The fluid is analyzed to help diagnose certain birth defects.
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Biophysical Profile (BPP)
A biophysical profile is a test that combines a nonstress test with ultrasound. It's usually performed in the last trimester.
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Cesarean Delivery
Cesarean delivery is the surgical delivery of a baby by an incision through the mother's abdomen and uterus. This procedure is performed when it is determined to be a safer method than a vaginal delivery for the mother, baby, or both.
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Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)
This prenatal test involves taking a sample of tissue from the placenta to test for chromosomal abnormalities and certain other genetic problems.
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Doppler Flow Studies
Doppler flow is a type of ultrasound that measures the flow of blood through a blood vessel. Doppler flow studies may be used to assess blood flow in the umbilical blood vein and arteries, fetal brain, and fetal heart.
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Episiotomy
During childbirth, the vagina may not stretch enough. If this occurs, your health care provider may perform an episiotomy to help enlarge the opening and deliver the baby.
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Fetal Blood Sampling
Fetal blood sampling is a procedure to remove a small amount of blood from the fetus during pregnancy. It may be taken to diagnose problems or an infection.
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Fetal Movement Counting
Fetal movement counting, often called kick counting, is a way a mother can help monitor the movements of her unborn baby by counting the number of kicks in a certain time period.
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Fetal Ultrasound
Fetal ultrasound is a test used during pregnancy that creates an image of the fetus in the mother's uterus, or womb.
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First Trimester Screening
Screening during the first trimester is a combination of ultrasound and two blood tests. These tests can help determine the risk of certain birth defects.
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