Description
Overview:
The Second Trimester is often called the “honeymoon period,” but it is arguably the most metabolically demanding phase for the mother. As the baby grows, your blood volume doubles, placing stress on your iron reserves, and placental hormones can interfere with insulin, leading to diabetes. This package is specifically curated to monitor these metabolic shifts and ensure the baby is developing safely.
What does this package cover?
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Metabolic Health & Diabetes Screen:
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Gestational Diabetes Screen (Glucose Challenge Test): Typically performed between 24–28 weeks. You will be given a specific sugary drink, and your blood will be tested one hour later to see how your body processes sugar. Unmanaged diabetes can lead to high birth weight and complications.
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Fetal Genetic Safety:
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Maternal Serum Quad Screen: (Recommended if First Trimester screening was missed). A sophisticated blood test that measures four specific substances (AFP, hCG, Estriol, and Inhibin-A) to assess the risk of neural tube defects like Spina Bifida and chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome.
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Maternal Health & Anemia Check:
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Repeat Complete Blood Count (CBC): Because your blood volume increases massively in this trimester, “physiologic anemia” (diluted blood) is common. This test confirms if your iron supplements are working and if your oxygen-carrying capacity is sufficient for the baby.
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Kidney Function & Preeclampsia Monitor:
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Urinalysis (Dipstick/Routine): Screens for protein in the urine—an early warning sign of Preeclampsia (high blood pressure)—and asymptomatic urinary tract infections.
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Clinical Note on Imaging:
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Please Note: While not a blood test, the Anatomy Scan Ultrasound (Level II) is highly recommended between 18–22 weeks to visually confirm organ development.
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Patient Instructions
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Fasting Required:
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Glucose Challenge Test: Usually does not require fasting (you can eat a normal meal beforehand), but please confirm with the lab as protocols vary.
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Other tests: No specific fasting required.
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Sample Type: Blood (Serum & EDTA) and Urine sample.
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Report Turnaround: 24–48 Hours.
