I've just found out that I'm pregnant, and it sounds silly but I'm really squeamish about the tests and scans I'll have before I have my baby! I don't like the thought of being probed and prodded. What should I expect?
Marie, Birmingham
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Gail Johnson
Development advisor at the Royal College of Midwives
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Ask the experts
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Gail says…
The purpose of antenatal screening is to monitor you and your developing baby, and the tests offered are optional. It is important that you understand what the tests are for and how they will be done, and then you can decide if you wish to go ahead with them.
There are a number of blood tests, which are usually done in early pregnancy. Although there are a lot of tests, it is common to take just one lot of blood, which means just one needle. The recommendation is that blood should be taken again later in pregnancy. In addition, most women are offered two scans - one to confirm the gestation of the pregnancy, and the second at around 20 weeks to look for anomalies with the foetus. Scans are painless, although some women feel a bit of discomfort due to a full bladder. The radiographer will ensure your privacy.
During each appointment you have with your midwife, she will ask you questions about you and the pregnancy, test your urine and check your blood pressure. She will also want to examine your abdomen to monitor how well the baby is growing. When you first meet with the midwife to plan your care, explain to her how you feel. Having an understanding of what is happening to you and why may make you feel better, and she will be able to give you as much or as little detail as you want.
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