1. Background Talk

It is important to talk to your gynaecologist about all the previous ailments and treatments you have had, the family history of illnesses and any complications in previous pregnancy.

History of cancer, Thalassemia, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and serious complications in previous pregnancies will prompt your gynaecologist to prescribe you certain tests and treatments that would ensure a safe pregnancy and delivery.

2. Blood Tests

Blood tests need to be done to detect the antibodies as well as existence of STDs including HIV. An HIV-AIDS detection test is recommended by the Government of India to all the pregnant women, irrespective of the exposure to HIV. Here are the factors that need to be checked in every blood test:

• Test for Rh Factor
  In case mother’s blood group is Rh negative and the foetus has an Rh positive blood group, mother’s body could react to the foetus’s blood as it would to an allergy. This may result in anaemia for the mother and endanger the life of the foetus. This problem can be dealt with medical treatment given on time.
  
• Haemoglobin
  This indicates whether the mother has adequate iron in her body for normal growth of the foetus.
  
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases
  Screening tests for STDs including Hepatitis B, Syphilis, HIV-AIDS and any other STDs if applicable

The blood test/tests must be taken whenever recommended by your gynaecologist.