What is Second & Third Trimester Antenatal Screening?

Second & Third Trimester Antenatal Screening is a routine pregnancy health check performed from 13 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. It is designed to monitor your baby's growth and development, assess the mother's overall health, and identify any changes or potential concerns that may require further medical attention.

Regular antenatal check-ups help ensure that both mother and baby are closely monitored throughout the pregnancy, providing reassurance and supporting a healthier pregnancy journey.

What's Included in This Screening?

✅ Full Blood Count (FBC)

A blood test that measures your haemoglobin, red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelet levels. It helps detect conditions such as anaemia or signs of infection.

✅ Urine FEME (UFEME)

A urine test used to check for protein, glucose, bacteria, and other indicators of urinary tract infections or conditions that may affect pregnancy.

✅ Pregnancy Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan is performed to monitor your baby's growth, position, amniotic fluid level, placental location, and overall pregnancy progress according to your gestational age.

Why is This Screening Important?

• Monitors your baby's growth and development.

• Assesses the mother's health throughout pregnancy.

• Helps detect anaemia, infections, or other health changes early.

• Checks your baby's position and placental location.

• Provides reassurance through regular pregnancy monitoring.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When should I have the Second & Third Trimester Antenatal Screening?

This screening is recommended from 13 weeks of pregnancy until delivery. The frequency of your check-ups depends on your stage of pregnancy and your doctor's recommendations to ensure both your baby's development and your health are closely monitored.

2. What is included in this screening package?

This package includes:

• Full Blood Count (FBC) – A blood test to assess the mother's overall health.

• Urine FEME (UFEME) – A urine test to detect infections or other abnormalities.

• Pregnancy Ultrasound – An ultrasound scan to monitor your baby's growth, position, and development.

3. Do I need to fast before the screening?

No. For the FBC, UFEME, and pregnancy ultrasound, fasting is generally not required, unless specifically advised by your doctor or healthcare provider.

4. How long does the screening take?

The complete screening usually takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your baby's position during the ultrasound and the time required for the blood sample collection.

5. Why are blood and urine tests important during the second and third trimester?

Blood and urine tests help identify conditions such as anaemia, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or other health changes that may affect both the mother and baby. Early detection allows appropriate follow-up and timely medical management if necessary.

6. Can this screening confirm that my baby is completely healthy?

No. This is a screening examination, not a diagnostic test. It is intended to monitor your baby's development and the mother's health throughout pregnancy. While it may help identify certain changes or potential concerns, it cannot guarantee or confirm that your baby is free from all medical conditions or abnormalities. If any findings require further assessment, you may be advised to consult an Obstetrician & Gynaecologist (O&G) for additional evaluation.