Pregnancy screening tests

Pregnancy screening tests help assess maternal and fetal health risks before a problem becomes clinically apparent.
 

These tests differ from chromosomal and genetic disease screening because their primary aim is not to assess the risk of a fetal genetic disorder. The aim of pregnancy screening tests is to assess the risk of pregnancy-related complications and to identify ways to prevent or detect them earlier.
 

They are also not simply ultrasound examinations. A pregnancy screening test may combine the patient’s medical history, blood tests, blood pressure assessment, ultrasound examination, cervical length measurement, assessment of fetal growth and placental function, and, if needed, further monitoring or a treatment plan.
 

Early risk assessment for pregnancy complications is important because some complications develop gradually and may initially have few symptoms. If the risk is identified in time, the pregnancy can be monitored more closely, preventive measures can be started, and follow-up examinations or treatment can be planned before the problem affects the health of the mother or the baby.
 

Pregnancy screening tests include:
 

• Preeclampsia screening
• Preterm birth risk assessment
• Gestational diabetes screening
• Pregnancy CMV, or cytomegalovirus, screening
   

Preeclampsia screening helps assess the risk of a pregnancy complication related to placental function and high blood pressure and, if needed, plan preventive care.
 

Preterm birth risk assessment takes into account the previous obstetric history and cervical length in order to detect an increased risk in time.
 

Gestational diabetes screening helps detect a disturbance in blood sugar metabolism during pregnancy and, if needed, plan dietary guidance, blood glucose monitoring, and fetal growth follow-up.
 

Pregnancy CMV screening helps assess whether the woman has had previous exposure to cytomegalovirus, whether she is susceptible to infection, and whether there are signs of a recent primary infection. If the result is positive or unclear, a clear care pathway is important.
 

The need for each screening test depends on the gestational age, the patient’s medical history, the mother’s health, blood test results and ultrasound findings. The patient is informed about what is being assessed, what the result may mean, and what the next steps may be.