Ep46: A Guide to Prenatal Testing and What to Expect from Tests in Each Trimester

Have you ever felt confused about prenatal testing and why your doctor is running so many tests on you during your pregnancy? I realized that a lot of OBGYNs don't do a great job of explaining all of the tests we do during pregnancy, so I thought I'd walk you through the recommended ones. Thank you to Julie, who suggested this topic in the All About Pregnancy & Birth Facebook Group! You'll have most of your testing done at the initial appointment, which includes a full blood count and some tests for various infections, too. Then we'll talk about some of the tests you can expect to receive in the second and third trimesters and why we do each test that we do.  And don't worry about taking notes today - you can download a companion guide to this episode, with all the information about prenatal testing we'll cover today, right here. In this Episode, You’ll Learn About: What tests you can expect to get at your initial appointment and throughout the first, second, and third trimesters. Why we do each test and how it helps your doctor monitor your health and the health of your baby. A brief overview of some genetic tests you can receive. Why and how we test for gestational diabetes, which is fairly common in the third trimester. Why many doctors don't do an ultrasound in the third trimester. Some of the infections that doctors test for and how they can affect your pregnancy & birth. Links Mentioned In The Episode How To Make A Birth Plan That Works - Free Online Class! The Birth Preparation Course Download this episode's companion guide to prenatal testing! Come join us in the All About Pregnancy and Birth Facebook Group! This episode was inspired by one of our conversations there, and it's a great place to meet other pregnant women and learn more about what to expect from your pregnancy & birth. Ep #22: All About Your Due Date Ep #31: Pregnancy & GBS (Group B Strep) Join my email list here! Our Sponsors: * Check out ByHeart and use my code DRNICOLE for a great deal: byheart.com/podcast * Download FamilyAlbum from the App Store today, and start creating a legacy of love one photo at a time. * Get $120 Off Across 4 Boxes, Plus Free Shipping and Free Cookies! Go to gobble.com/DRNICOLE. * Practice love every day with Paired, the #1 app for couples. Download the app at https://www.paired.com/DRNICOLE * Start Ritual or add Essential For Women Prenatal to your subscription today and get 25% off. That’s ritual.com/DRNICOLE for 25% off. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy