The first trimester of pregnancy - what tests to take

What Are Prenatal Tests?

Prenatal tests are examinations conducted to assess a woman's and her unborn child's health during pregnancy. They can identify conditions that, if left untreated, could put a baby at risk for issues including preterm birth. Tests can also assist medical professionals in identifying chromosomal abnormalities or birth defects.

Certain prenatal tests are screening tests that are limited to identifying potential issues. Diagnostic tests that reliably determine whether a fetus has a particular issue are among the other prenatal examinations. A diagnostic test may occasionally come after a screening test.

Find out about the advantages and disadvantages of every test your doctor suggests. Prenatal testing, according to most parents, help them feel more at ease and ready for the arrival of their kid. However, you have the option to accept or reject a test.

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What Tests Are Done at the Prenatal First Visit?

Verifying that you are pregnant and determining whether you or your unborn child may be at risk for any health issues are two of the main objectives of your initial appointment with the obstetrician.

In addition to taking your blood pressure and measuring your weight, the doctor will perform a thorough physical examination that may include a pelvic and breast exam. During the pelvic exam, the doctor will do your routine cervical test (Pap smear) if it is due. This test finds alterations in cervical cells that may result in cancer. Your doctor will also check for sexually transmitted infections (STDs) including gonorrhea and chlamydia during the pelvic exam.

You could have a urine pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy. This test looks for the hormone hCG. Tests are also performed on your urine for protein, sugar, and infection indicators. Your due date is determined using the date of your most recent menstrual cycle. An ultrasound examination can occasionally be used to determine this, especially when early ultrasound timing becomes important.

A blood test will look for conditions such as:

• your Rh factor and blood type
• Low red blood cell count, or anemia
• HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B
• Immunity to varicella and rubella, as well as screening for spinal muscular atrophy and cystic fibrosis

What Other Tests Are Done in the First Trimester?

Following the initial appointment, you can expect blood pressure, weight, and urine checks at each visit. These routine checks help detect conditions like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes. Understanding how the body changes in the first trimester can make these tests feel more familiar.

Depending on your age, personal health, and family history, you may be offered specific additional tests, including:

First trimester screening

This combined blood test and ultrasound helps assess the risk of chromosomal conditions such as Down syndrome. A deeper overview of these methods is available in the guide to first trimester screening.

Ultrasound

Sound waves create detailed images of the baby’s position and development. Some people have multiple ultrasounds in early pregnancy, especially if they're monitoring high-risk conditions.

Chorionic villus sampling (CVS)

This diagnostic test examines placental cells for chromosomal abnormalities and is typically performed between weeks 10 and 13.

Cell-free DNA testing / NIPS

This maternal blood test analyzes fetal DNA fragments to assess the baby’s risk of chromosomal abnormalities. It is highly sensitive but not diagnostic. If results are concerning, follow-up diagnostic testing is recommended.

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What Other Tests Might Be Offered?

Depending on individual risk factors and medical or family history, additional tests may be recommended. Many of these fall under broader categories of genetic analysis during pregnancy, especially when hereditary conditions are possible.

Screening or diagnostic options may include tests for:

• thyroid disease
• toxoplasmosis
• hepatitis C
• cytomegalovirus (CMV)
• Tay-Sachs disease
• fragile X syndrome
• tuberculosis
• Canavan disease

All tests are optional; your healthcare provider can walk you through benefits, limitations, and when they may be useful. Discussing these recommendations openly can also ease relationship-related tension—especially when partners are navigating the process together. Some people find supportive communication tools like questions that strengthen emotional connection helpful during this stage.

If you feel anxious about appointments or results, caring support from an AI chatbot for mental health support can make the process less overwhelming.