Prenatal Consultation and Testing

pregnant at doctors office

Make Informed Decisions

Dr. Gray believes science-based, proven information is crucial for moms to make the best decisions for themselves and their babies. Prenatal care helps every mom have a healthy pregnancy and make informed decisions regarding her pregnancy. While there are many types of prenatal tests, different tests are used at different times throughout pregnancy.

Some prenatal tests are screening tests, while other prenatal tests can help make a diagnosis. A screening test is done if there is a RISK of a problem. A diagnostic test can tell if a specific problem is present.

The different types of prenatal testing can include:

  • Blood tests to check for: blood type and Rh factor, Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), iron-deficiency anemia and more.
  • Urine tests may be needed to check for: glucose levels, presence of proteins, ketones and bacteria.
  • Ultrasound: An ultrasound is a noninvasive exam that uses sound waves to take “pictures” of mom and baby in utero. Ultrasounds are conducted throughout the varying stages of pregnancy and can be used to confirm pregnancy, determine gestational stage,
  • Amniocentesis: An amniocentesis is a diagnostic procedure during which a sample of amniotic fluid is removed and evaluated. Amniotic fluid is the fluid surrounding a developing fetus. It contains cells normally shed from the fetus.
  • Chorionic villus sampling (CVS): CVS is a diagnostic procedure during which a sample of chorionic villi cells from the placenta is removed and tested for chromosomal abnormalities and genetic birth defects. CVS is done at 10-14 weeks gestation and can test for diseases such as Down syndrome, and cystic fibrosis.
  • Genetic Testing and Screening: Cell free fetal DNA testing.