Blood tests during pregnancy

A blood test during pregnancy is a step that every expectant mother must go through. In fact, several blood samples may be required over the course of the pregnancy. We may as well tell you, ladies, that if you're not keen on needles, you'll need to grin and bear it.

The blood test during pregnancy: a compulsory first examination

Did your urine test come back positive? Congratulations — you are almost certainly pregnant! However, to rule out any doubt and confirm this news, you will need to have a first pregnancy blood test.

Generally, this is requested by your doctor and carried out at a laboratory from the 4th week of presumed fertilisation. The prescription will allow you to be reimbursed by your health insurance, which would not be the case without this document. You do not need to be fasting for this test, and it can be done at any time of day.

It is used to determine the exact level of the beta-hCG hormone, which will in turn allow a date to be given for the pregnancy — and therefore an expected due date (EDD).

Finally, a positive result from this blood sample will allow you to make your first appointment with your gynaecologist.

What other blood tests are needed during pregnancy?

Over the next 9 months, you will be asked to undergo further blood tests. Some are compulsory, whilst others are simply recommended. This battery of tests will in particular allow for the detection of:

• Toxoplasmosis screening
• Immunity or non-immunity to rubella
• Checking the mother's blood group and rhesus factor
• Testing for hepatitis B, and in some cases hepatitis C
• Screening for certain STIs such as syphilis
• Identifying the FBC (Full Blood Count) to prevent anaemia

My pregnancy calendar

As you can see, your schedule over the coming months will be packed with appointments. Between visits to the midwife, the gynaecologist, and the laboratory, you'll certainly need to keep a diary! And if you'd like to find out more on this subject, do take a look at our article on the pregnancy calendar!