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What can I expect from second trimester tests?

Once you have gotten past the potential dangers of the first trimester, it is time to endure the tests that happen during the second trimester. Many of these are standard testing and are used to ensure that your baby is growing healthy, without any defects, and to anticipate any possible problems with the pregnancy and birth.

Ultrasound:
This test is great because it not only looks to ensure the infant is growing healthy and the placenta is fine, but can also determine the gender of your baby. The outcome of this test is so exciting for new parents that they often forget that the purpose is to see the baby and be certain there are no problems.

Glucose Screening:
This test is required by pregnant mothers somewhere in the 24 to 28 week time period. The purpose of the test is to check for pregnancy induced diabetes, called gestational diabetes. It determines the mother’s blood sugar level by requiring mum to drink a glucose soda and then testing afterwards.

Amniocentesis:
Called amnio for short, amniocentesis is done between the 15 and 18 week mark. It is usually reserved for older women, 35+, or those that have a high risk for genetic disorders. It is a potentially risky procedure involving sticking a needle into the mother’s abdomen and withdrawing fluid for the fetal cells inside. While there is a low risk of miscarriage for the test, it can determine 99 percent of possible genetic defects.
 
 
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