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Tests
Performed During Pregnancy
Third Trimester
A number of the tests performed earlier, such as those for
glucose tolerance, are repeated or updated in the third
trimester. If your doctor suspects a problem, he or she may
also recommend additional testing.
Possible Tests
during late stages of pregnancy:
•
Amniocentesis–a
sample of the amniotic fluid surrounding your baby is used to
detect chromosome abnormalities, inherited disorders, or
developmental defects.
• Chorionic villus sampling
(CVS)–detects genetic disorders.
• Maternal serum
alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test–detects brain or spinal
cord defects.
• Percutaneous umbilical
blood sampling–requires highly skilled personnel since a
sample of your baby’s blood is taken to check for certain
disorders, drug levels, infection, or genetic conditions.
• Triple test–detects
developmental defects and chromosomal abnormalities to a
greater degree than the MSAFP test
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