✦ First Trimester Care

The Most Important 12 Weeks

It’s a universal journey occurring between conception and 12 weeks (3 months) of pregnancy

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SCREENING FOR ANEUPLOIDY

Screening tests give information about your baby’s risk of a chromosome disorder. This testing is optional, and not all pregnant women have it. Some of these tests also screen for problems with your baby’s brain or spine.

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PRE CONCEPTIONAL COUNSELLING

Preconception counselling is an appointment with your healthcare provider that helps you plan for a future pregnancy. You’ll discuss your family history, risk factors, medical conditions and lifestyle. This appointment is an important part of a planned and healthy pregnancy.

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CERVICAL SCREENING

Cervical screening is a test of the length of cervix and help to prevent preterm labour.

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VIABILITY SCAN

A Fetal Viability Scan is an ultrasound examination usually carried out at 7 to 12 weeks, to confirm that the pregnancy is developing normally and to provide reassurance. Additionally, this scan will confirm or exclude whether twins are present.

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RECURRENT PREGNANCY LOSS

When a patient experiences repeated abortion (two or more) before viability (<24 weeks), these patients require special investigations and management.

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SCREENING FOR PREECLAMPSIA

Blood pressure measurements are routinely used to screen for preeclampsia. The patient’s blood pressure should be measured while she is relaxed, quiet, and in a sitting position, with her legs uncrossed and her back supported. The patient’s arm should be at the level of the right atrium of the heart.

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SCREENING FOR GDM

Screening tests may vary slightly depending on your health care provider, but generally include: Initial glucose challenge test. You’ll drink a glucose solution. Two hour later, you’ll have a blood test to measure your blood sugar level.