7 important pregnancy tests in the second trimester

Are there effective ways to prevent fetal anomalies and health problems in the second trimester? Indeed, at this time, the risk of pregnancy in pregnant women and fetuses is very much.

From bleeding, premature birth to Down syndrome. To anticipate this, it is recommended for pregnant women to undergo the following pregnancy tests.

1. A pregnancy test in the form of MSAP

When you enter the second trimester, your doctor will recommend genetic testing. One such test is the maternal alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP), which is used to measure alpha-fetoprotein levels as a protein produced by the fetus. Through this examination, pregnant women can discover the potential for Down syndrome and detect the condition of the fetal organs.

Besides MSAFP, doctors generally recommend examining other substances during this quarter. Substances including levels of hCG, estriol hormones and inhibin-A. When inhibin-A is added, it is called quadruple screening.

2. Non-invasive prenatal tests (NIPT)

NIPT is very important to understand the health of the developing fetus. This blood sample is estimated to detect the potential for Down syndrome and the number of fetal chromosomes.

Usually, healthy humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. The last chromosome sequence is used to identify the sex of the upcoming baby. The NIPT also ensures the completeness of chromosome copies.

3. Ultrasonic Test

Starting in the 20th week, pregnant women usually have to undergo an ultrasound. This test is designed to determine the risk of birth defects in the fetus.

An image of a moving fetus in the uterus can be seen from all sides, by ultrasonography. In fact, all parts of his body clearly displayed through this tool. The instrument is placed on the belly of a pregnant woman, with the tip emitting sound waves. Then, the sound waves trigger an echo capture by the instrument and are displayed on the screen.

4. Glucose test

Glucose test (GCT) or glucose test is carried out at 24-28 weeks gestation. By undergoing GCT, the risk of gestational diabetes in pregnant women can be detected early.

During this examination, pregnant women are asked to consume fluids containing glucose, which must be consumed for five minutes. Interval of two hours, pregnant women will be subjected to blood samples, which will be examined in the laboratory.

5. Amniocentesis test

If the doctor discovers the risk of health problems related to pregnancy during some screening, pregnant women are advised to undergo an amniocentesis test. As a general rule, this test is recommended between 15 and 18 weeks of pregnancy in women aged 35 and over.

This examination requires a sample of amniotic fluid, obtained with a needle inserted into the mother's stomach. In addition, amniotic fluid will be brought to the laboratory. Damage to the amniotic fluid, indicates serious health problems in the fetus.

6. Fetal Doppler Ultrasonography

Doppler ultrasonography is a device that uses sound waves. This tool is used to detect blood flow in vessels. By using Doppler ultrasound, pregnant women can find out the state of the blood cycle to the placenta.

The mini version of Doppler ultrasound, called fetal doppler, is also capable of detecting fetal heart rates early. With a gel layer as a support, the Doppler rod is moved to be sent as sound waves.

7. Prenatal care

The Indonesian Ministry of Health recommends screening for single antenatal care in the second trimester of pregnancy. This test aims to improve the physical and mental health of pregnant women so that they can give birth, through the puerperium, by breastfeeding, and restore the health of the reproductive organs.

Monitor fetal growth and development:

The purpose of the ANC test is to monitor the progress of the pregnancy to ensure that the mother and fetus stay healthy.

Anticipating complications:

Pregnant women can experience complications. In addition, if you have a history and certain health conditions.

Prepare work:

The ANC exam will prepare mothers for childbirth in order to deliver safely while reducing the risk of trauma.

Pregnant women can undergo CPN tests at health centers, clinics and hospitals. In addition to obstetricians and general practitioners, midwives and nurses can also carry out this examination.

Share this post