Iron / ferritin recheck. Blood volume doubles in pregnancy. Iron deficiency that was borderline in the first trimester often worsens now. Low iron raises your hemorrhage risk at delivery.
Hemoglobin and hematocrit. Anemia screen at your 24–28 week visit is standard. Ask for the number, not just reassurance.
Vitamin D. If levels were low in your first trimester, request a recheck. Deficiency is linked to preeclampsia, GD, and preterm birth.
Blood pressure at every visit. Preeclampsia typically develops after 20 weeks. Know your numbers: 140/90 or higher is a threshold that requires action, not watchful waiting.
Urine protein. Protein alongside elevated BP is a key diagnostic marker for preeclampsia. Ask if they test it at every visit.
Black women have higher rates of anemia, Vitamin D deficiency, and preeclampsia. Advocate for numbers at every visit, not just reassurances.