What medical examinations are included during pregnancy?

Generally, the main prenatal examination items include routine blood tests, ultrasound examinations, Down syndrome screening, glucose tolerance tests, and thyroid function tests. If abnormalities are detected during these examinations, it is recommended to follow medical advice promptly for further evaluation or intervention. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Routine Blood Test

A routine blood test can measure indicators such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the pregnant woman's blood to determine whether anemia, infection, or abnormal coagulation function exists. During pregnancy, increased iron requirements may lead to iron deficiency anemia; timely detection can improve the condition through dietary adjustments or iron supplementation. Abnormally elevated white blood cell counts may indicate infection, which needs prompt treatment to avoid affecting maternal and fetal health.

2. Ultrasound Examination

Ultrasound examinations allow direct observation of fetal growth and development, assessment of fetal position and organ structure, as well as evaluation of amniotic fluid volume, placental position, and maturity. Early pregnancy ultrasounds can confirm intrauterine pregnancy and gestational age, mid-pregnancy ultrasounds (major anomaly scans) can detect significant fetal structural abnormalities, and late pregnancy ultrasounds can monitor fetal size and position, providing a basis for choosing the mode of delivery.

3. Down Syndrome Screening

Down syndrome screening assesses the risk of the fetus having Down syndrome by measuring specific hormone levels in the pregnant woman's blood, combined with gestational age, maternal age, and other factors. Children with Down syndrome often have intellectual disabilities, growth and developmental delays, and other issues. If the screening results indicate high risk, further non-invasive DNA testing or amniocentesis is required for a definitive diagnosis.

4. Glucose Tolerance Test

This test is used to screen for gestational diabetes and is typically performed between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. After the pregnant woman ingests glucose orally, blood glucose levels are measured at fasting and at specific time points after glucose intake. A diagnosis of gestational diabetes is made if the blood glucose levels exceed the threshold.

5. Thyroid Function Test

Thyroid function tests measure the levels of thyroid hormones in the pregnant woman's blood to determine whether there is hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Hyperthyroidism may cause maternal palpitations and preterm birth, while hypothyroidism may affect fetal brain development. Timely detection and treatment can reduce the risk of maternal and fetal complications.

In addition, urine routine tests, liver and kidney function tests, and fetal heart monitoring are also necessary during pregnancy. Prenatal examinations should be conducted regularly, and pregnant women should attend check-ups according to the schedule provided by their doctors. They should also maintain a balanced diet, regular作息 (作息 means rest and work schedule), and avoid excessive fatigue to provide a favorable environment for fetal development.