Pregnancy & prenatal testing

Pre-conception (pre-pregnancy)

When planning a pregnancy it is important to consult a health care professional. They will discuss tests which are recommended for all women, and advise if any extra tests should be performed based on family and medical histories. The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommend some general tests and specific tests in particular circumstances.

Tests recommended for all women:

• Rubella (German Measles) immunity

Tests that will be performed on only some women include:

• Cervical screening
• Varicella (chicken pox) immunity
• Toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus
• Haemoglobin abnormalities

First trimester (up to 12 weeks)

There are several important tests that are recommended early in pregnancy. These can include tests confirming the pregnancy, screening for existing infections and checking the woman’s blood group.

Tests usually performed in all pregnant women include:

• Pregnancy test
• Full blood examination
• Blood type and antibody screen
• Rubella (German Measles) immunity
• HIV serology
• Hepatitis B screening
• Syphilis serology
• Urine culture and sensitivity

Tests that will be performed on only some women include:

• Hepatitis C screening
• Varicella (chicken pox) immunity
• Screening for Down syndrome - Maternal screening
• Cervical screening
• Iron studies
• Vitamin D levels
• Haemoglobin abnormalities
• Chlamydia, gonorrhoea testing
• Urine screen for sugar and/or protein
• Bacterial vaginosis screen
• Chorionic villus sampling
• Toxoplasmosis, cytomegalovirus

More information on antenatal testing and pre-conception genetic testing can be obtained at:

Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG)
Human Genetics Society of Australasia: Policies and Statements
HealthInsite: Pregnancy
Centre for Genetics Education: publications.