What should you know about prenatal tests during pregnancy?

When you're pregnant, prenatal tests help you understand your health and your baby's health. These tests can detect potential issues like birth defects or genetic disorders, allowing you to make informed health care decisions. It's important to discuss the results with your doctor to understand what they mean. Some tests are routine for all pregnant women, while others are recommended based on individual risk factors. Prenatal tests can be done in the first, second, and third trimesters. They include blood and urine tests to check for conditions like diabetes, and ultrasounds to monitor the baby's development. Genetic screening tests can identify risks for disorders like Down syndrome. Diagnostic tests like amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling provide more definitive answers but come with some risks. Always talk to your doctor about which tests are right for you and what the results mean.