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Healthy Pregnancy A to Z

Healthy Life Column

Prenatal Tests by Gestational Week

Prenatal Tests by Gestational Week
  • Prenatal testing is essential for maintaining healthy pregnancy and labor.
  • It is important for pregnant women and fetus to have regular checkups.
Tests During 10-35 Weeks
Gestational Week Test Type Description
After 10 weeks Fetus DNA Test
(Non-Invasive Prenatal
testing, NIPT)
Analyze a small amount of fetal DNA in the mother's blood to determine the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, which includes Down Syndrome, Edward’s Syndrome, and Patau’s Syndrome.
11~13 Weeks Integrated Screening Test (IST) This is a screening test that can accurately detect fetal chromosomal abnormalities (especially Down syndrome) and neural tube defects. The newly introduced software calculates the risk of chromosomal abnormalities, nerves, and defects by combining both the thickness of the fetus’s neck and the concentration of proteins from the mother's blood.

1. Nuchal Translucency (measuring the fluid collection under the skin behind the fetal neck)
2. Blood Test (1st, 2nd)
3. Calculate the risk
4. Final results
Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) This test is done when chromosomal diagnosis is necessary due to advanced maternal age or abnormal prenatal test results.
Ultrasound Tests to check fetal growth, size, location and placenta position and shape.
16~20 Weeks Amniocentesis This is a test to check for chromosomal abnormalities when the mother is aged 35 years or older, or if the prenatal tests or ultrasound findings are abnormal.
Maternal Serum Screening (2nd)
Neural Tube Defects This is an examination for defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida.
20~24 Weeks Level II Ultrasound & Fetal Echocardiography This is the simplest test to detect fetal anomalies, and is a test for structural abnormalities, including fetal heart malformations.
24~28 Weeks Gestational Diabetes Test Tests are done for pregnant women with diabetes to prevent birth defects, infant diabetes and mortality.
Blood Test,
Liver Function Test
This test is to check for changes in liver function and anemia in pregnant women.
26~28 Weeks 4D Ultrasound This is a test to closely observe the appearance abnormalities such as the fingers, toes, and face of the fetus (videos and pictures are recorded).
After 32 Weeks Non-stress Test This is a test to diagnose the functional state of the fetus and mother. It measures the heart rate and uterine contraction of the fetus.
Tests After 35 Weeks
Test Type Description
Tests Before Delivery This test involves general blood test, liver function test, EKG, chest x-ray to prepare for any emergencies.
Ultrasound This test is done to check the position and size of the fetus, placenta, and amniotic fluid and to determine the overall condition of the mother and fetus before delivery.
Nonstress Test This is a test to diagnose the functional state of the fetus and mother. It measures the heartrate and uterine contraction of the fetus.