May 20 2008
Routine Prenatal Tests
The following tests are routine prenatal tests for each visit to your obgyn or midwife:
Blood Pressure:
At each prenatal visit your blood pressure will be tested by armband. A spike in blood pressure can be an indication of preeclampsia - which can cause the placenta to separate from the wall of the uterus.
Urine:
At each prenatal visit your urine will be tested for protein, sugar, blood and bacteria. Protein is another sign of preeclampsia, sugar can signal gestational diabetes and blood or bacteria can signal a urinary-tract infection.
Weight:
You will be monitored to see if you are gaining weight in small intervals. If you are not gaining weight or gaining weight too rapidly you will be counseled on your diet and nutrition.
Fundal Height:
You will be measured from your pelvic bone to the top of your uterus. This helps to see how your baby is growing.
Baby’s Heart Rate:
After about 12 weeks, your baby’s heartrate can be heard using a Doppler. The heart rate should be between 120-170 beats per minute and the doctor will check each visit to make sure it is within range.