Your checklist
Progress0 of 12 done
Reference
Labs to request
▾
Complete blood count (CBC), screens for anemia, which affects your risk of hemorrhage
Blood type + Rh factor, Rh negative requires RhoGAM to prevent complications in future pregnancies
Thyroid (TSH), untreated thyroid disorders increase miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental risks
Iron / ferritin, iron deficiency affects energy, fetal brain development, and birth outcomes. Black women are at higher risk
Vitamin D, deficiency linked to preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth
Rubella + varicella immunity, confirms vaccination protection; can't vaccinate during pregnancy
Hepatitis B and HIV, standard screening; affects newborn care plan
STI screen, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis. Affects delivery and newborn management
Urine culture, screens for asymptomatic UTI, which doubles preterm birth risk if untreated
Black women have higher rates of untreated thyroid disorders, anemia, and Vitamin D deficiency entering pregnancy. These labs establish your actual baseline, not an assumed one.
Genetic testing
▾
NIPT (Non-invasive prenatal testing), blood draw at 10+ weeks. Screens for trisomies 21, 18, 13, sex chromosome conditions, and optionally fetal sex. High sensitivity but not diagnostic.
Nuchal translucency ultrasound (11–13 weeks), measures fluid at the back of the baby's neck. Combined with blood markers, gives a first trimester risk assessment for Down syndrome and trisomy 18.
Carrier screening, tests you (and optionally your partner) for recessive conditions you could pass on. Sickle cell carrier screening is especially relevant for Black and African American families.
If a screening comes back abnormal, it does not mean your baby has a condition, it means further diagnostic testing (CVS or amniocentesis) may be offered. Ask your provider to explain your specific result, not just "elevated risk."