Tests and scans in pregnancy
The routine blood tests, urine tests and ultrasound scans offered in pregnancy, and what they are for.
- Booking bloods cover anaemia, blood group, HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B
- A dating scan before 14 weeks gives the most accurate due date
- The detailed scan is done between 18 and 22 weeks
- Blood pressure and urine checks catch pre-eclampsia early
Blood tests at booking include haemoglobin (for anaemia), blood group and Rhesus factor, HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B. Haemoglobin and HIV are usually repeated later in pregnancy. If you are Rhesus negative you may be offered an anti-D injection at around 28 weeks.
Urine is tested at each visit for protein, which can be an early sign of pre-eclampsia, and for sugar and signs of infection.
Ultrasound scans do not use radiation. A dating scan before 14 weeks gives the most accurate due date. A detailed (anomaly) scan between 18 and 22 weeks checks the baby's structure, the placenta and the fluid around the baby. Later scans may be done to check growth, position or fluid.
Blood pressure at every visit is one of the most important checks in pregnancy — raised blood pressure often has no symptoms at first.
You may decline any test, and you should be told what a test is for and what the result means.
This information is general health education and does not replace advice from your nurse, midwife or doctor. In an emergency go to your nearest facility.