Comprehensive Guide from Nandhini-Pearl Hospital, Chennai
At Nandhini-Pearl Hospital, we understand that every pregnancy is a beautiful journey that deserves expert medical care and close monitoring.
Blood tests play a key role in assessing a mother’s health and the baby’s development — before conception, throughout pregnancy, and even after childbirth.
Our team of expert doctors — Dr Chitra Shankar, Dr Uma Ramesh, Dr G Shanthi, Dr R Bhargavi, and Dr Swaathy Ramesh — guide mothers through every step, ensuring safe, healthy, and stress-free motherhood.
Blood Tests Before Pregnancy
Pre-conception blood testing helps identify health issues that might affect fertility or pregnancy outcomes.
1️ Complete Blood Count (CBC)
Checks haemoglobin levels and detects anaemia or infections.
✅Why it matters: Healthy blood ensures better oxygen supply to both mother and baby.
2️ Blood Group & Rh Typing
Determines your blood group and Rh factor.
✅Why it matters: Prevents Rh incompatibility issues through early care.
3️ Thyroid Function Test (T3, T4, TSH)
Evaluates thyroid hormone levels.
✅Why it matters: Uncontrolled thyroid imbalance can affect ovulation and increase miscarriage risk.
4️ Blood Sugar (Fasting & HbA1C)
Checks for diabetes or insulin resistance.
✅Why it matters: Good sugar control improves chances of a healthy pregnancy.
5️ Rubella, Varicella & Hepatitis B Screening
Detects immunity to viral infections.
✅Why it matters: If not immune, vaccines can be taken before conceiving.
6️ HIV, HBsAg & VDRL Tests
Screens for sexually transmitted diseases.
✅Why it matters: Ensures timely treatment to protect both mother and baby.
Blood Tests During Pregnancy
Regular blood testing during pregnancy helps monitor maternal health and fetal growth at different stages.
First Trimester (Up to 12 Weeks)
- CBC: Detects anaemia or infection.
- Blood Group & Rh Typing: Confirmed early for preventive care.
- HIV, HBsAg, VDRL: Prevents mother-to-child transmission.
- Thyroid & Sugar Tests: Detects gestational diabetes or thyroid disorders.
- Double Marker Test: Screens for Down syndrome and genetic risks.
Second Trimester (13–27 Weeks)
- Quadruple Marker Test: Assesses four hormones to detect birth defects.
- Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT): Diagnoses gestational diabetes (between 24–28 weeks).
- Iron Studies: Ensures healthy haemoglobin levels and oxygen supply.
Third Trimester (28–40 Weeks)
- CBC & Urine Routine: Detects infection or anaemia.
- Liver & Kidney Function Tests: Identifies pre-eclampsia risk.
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Test: Prevents neonatal infections.
- Antibody Screen: Ensures Rh-negative mothers get Anti-D injection on time.
Blood Tests After Pregnancy
After childbirth, blood tests help mothers recover well and monitor postnatal health.
1️ Postpartum CBC
Checks haemoglobin and detects blood loss-related anaemia.
2️ Thyroid Function Test
Identifies postpartum thyroiditis, which can cause fatigue or mood changes.
3️ Blood Sugar Test
Monitors glucose levels post-delivery, especially after gestational diabetes.
4️ Vitamin D & B12 Levels
Ensures proper nutrition for energy and breastfeeding health.
5️ Lipid Profile
Tracks cholesterol and heart health after pregnancy.
Why Choose Nandhini-Pearl Hospital for Your Pregnancy Blood Tests
- 🧪Comprehensive in-house diagnostic lab with precise, same-day results
- 👩⚕️Expert gynaecologists and fetal medicine consultants to interpret every report clearly
- 🤝Personalised pregnancy monitoring from conception to delivery
- ❤️Holistic maternity care integrated with ultrasound, fertility, and fetal medicine units
Our specialists — including Dr Chitra Shankar, Dr Uma Ramesh, and Dr Vijayameenakshi Inthulan (Fetal Medicine Consultant) — work together to review every report, guide your next steps, and ensure the healthiest outcome for mother and baby.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why are blood tests necessary during pregnancy?
They help detect early health issues, track baby’s growth, and prevent complications.
2. When should I take my first pregnancy blood test?
Usually between 6–10 weeks, as advised by your gynaecologist.
3. What is the Double Marker Test?
It measures PAPP-A and hCG levels to screen for genetic or chromosomal abnormalities.
4. Is fasting required for pregnancy blood tests?
Yes, for sugar or glucose tolerance tests. Others do not require fasting.
5. How do thyroid problems affect pregnancy?
They may cause miscarriage or premature birth; timely medication keeps levels normal.
6. What happens if I’m Rh-negative?
You’ll receive an Anti-D injection to protect future pregnancies.
7. Can blood tests detect if my baby is healthy?
Yes, tests like Double Marker and Quadruple Marker help assess baby’s well-being.
8. Are these blood tests safe during pregnancy?
Absolutely. They only involve minimal blood sampling from the mother.
9. How often should I get blood tests during pregnancy?
Usually once every trimester or as suggested by your doctor.
10. Should I get blood tests after delivery too?
Yes, postpartum blood tests ensure your recovery and check thyroid, sugar, and haemoglobin levels.
📞 Book Your Pregnancy Check-Up
For personalised pregnancy care, advanced diagnostics, and expert consultation, visit Nandhini-Pearl Hospital, Velachery, Chennai.
Our compassionate team of gynaecologists and fetal medicine consultants are here to support you every step of the way — from planning to delivery and beyond.
📅Book your appointment today:
Call: 91 59 59 00 00