In addition to regular ultrasounds, there are a number of routine prenatal tests that I recommend having at the beginning of the pregnancy. They are all screening tests. This means I am not particularly concerned that you might have these conditions, only that they are conditions commonly seen in pregnant women and are important to the outcome of the pregnancy.
Routine tests
- Full blood count (FBE)
- Blood group and antibody screen
- Infectious disease screen (Hepatitis B & C, HIV, syphilis, varicella and rubella)
- Urine test for infection (MSU)
- Thyroid test (TSH)
- Vitamin D level
- Cervical screening test (if due)
Other tests
In special circumstances, I’ll also recommend other prenatal tests and will discuss them with you as needed.
- Down syndrome screening
- Neural tube defects
Genetic screening
It is now possible to check if your baby has a chance of inheriting some genetic conditions. This type of test is known as carrier screening and it determines if either parent is carrying a certain genetic variant that they could pass on to the baby, which could cause a serious health condition.
The conditions that testing is currently available for are:
- Cystic fibrosis
- Spinal muscular atrophy
- Fragile X syndrome.
The standard genetic screening test costs about $350 per person tested for all three conditions. It is usual to test the mother or the father first, then arrange testing for the partner if a copy of the gene is found, so there is potential that both parents would need the test.
To make an appointment, call (03) 9418 8299 or book online.
Disclaimer
The information on this page is general in nature. All medical and surgical procedures have potential benefits and risks. Consult a healthcare professional for medical advice specific to you.
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