Regular Pregnancy Check-ups
Regular check-ups involve an ultrasound after the missed period to diagnose the pregnancy, which then continues at a pace dictated by the pregnancy, and a gynecological examination once a month after 15-16 weeks, when the cervix is formed and its length, consistency, position, whether it is closed, as well as vaginal discharge, should be checked for the first time. Along with blood parameter measurements, a classic examination is the only way to establish altered secretion or infection, which can lead to premature rupture of membranes and spontaneous abortion or preterm delivery.
Expert Ultrasound (11-12 weeks and 24 weeks)
Around 11-12 weeks of gestation, an ultrasound examination is necessary to measure the size of the fetus, observe basic anatomical structures, measure Nuchal translucency as an early marker for aneuploidies, and check for the presence of the fetal nasal bone. For young pregnant women with an unremarkable history, a double screening test may be sufficient.
A detailed ultrasound examination by organ systems is needed around 24 weeks of gestation to avoid the presence of anomalies.
Cervicometry
The length, position, and opening of the cervix are measured with a transvaginal probe, as a reliable sign of whether there is a risk of preterm delivery, which we calculate from 24 weeks. If the cervix length is over 35 mm at 24-26 weeks of gestation, the chances of preterm delivery are negligible; if the cervix is shorter than 2.5 cm on measurement, it indicates a threatened preterm delivery and therapy and rest are required.
CTG
Measuring the fetal heart activity along with the uterine contractility is a good way to monitor the condition of the fetus before and during delivery, as well as the degree of its oxygenation and potential risk.
Genetic Testing of the Fetus (Non-invasive NIPT, Invasive - Amniocentesis)
Non-invasive prenatal diagnostics are based on the analysis of fetal DNA obtained from the mother's blood. Naturally, the further along the pregnancy progresses, the easier it will be to obtain a satisfactory amount of fDNA from the mother's blood, making the analysis more reliable, so although the test can be done early, after 10 weeks, it is not advised to perform it before 12-13 weeks of gestation. If the test is normal, there is no need for further intervention, but if it is not, amniocentesis should be performed, along with additional genetic analysis of the amniotic fluid, which cannot be done before 15 weeks. Only if the second result confirms the previous one, termination of pregnancy is suggested in case of major defects.