WHY WE CHECK THESE LABS DURING PREGNANCY

Labs are designed to pick up certain illness or other possible problems.

1. Full Blood Count ( FBC)/ Complete Blood Count (CBC).

2. HB checked should not be less than 11g/dl during pregnancy. HB should be checked at least not less than 3 times before delivery. * Blood group A, B, AB, O should be done to safe guard the need for transfusion and to prevent any reaction to blood. Rhesus factor- rhesus factor is an inherited protein found on the surface of the red blood cells. Rhesus negative mothers needs special attention and care and are to be given Anti D injection to safe their subsequent pregnancy.

3. VDRL test is done to confirm Syphilis infection for early treatment to prevent infection of the fetus.

4. Hepatitis B Hep B positive infection can lead to chronic liver disease or to an asyptomatic state. Babies can be vaccinated against it.

5. HIV Test. HIV positive mothers have high rates of premature delivery, lower birth weight and higher neonatal rate.

6. URINALYSIS: Ketones- in urine indicates that the body is using Fats rather than Carbohydrates for energy. Glucose- glucose is your main source of energy to the body. If blood glucose levels are too high it's a sign of diabetes, however a blood glucose test maybe needed to draw a conclusion.

Protein- protein is essential for your body to function properly. When there is a problem with your kidneys protein can leak into the urine. If Your protein levels are constantly high it may indicates kidney damage or other medical condition such as UTI, Pre- eclampsia, diabetes etc.

By: Midwife Esther Hannah Kwaw