Performing tests in the third trimester of pregnancy helps in determining:a due dateappropriate pre- and post labor preparationsthe likelihood of postpartum depressionthe movement and positioning of the babythe type of labor and delivery procedureswhat to expect during and after the delivery

The third trimester of pregnancy  includes the last three months of the development of the baby inside the mother’s womb (27th/28th week till the end of pregnancy). There are various tests which are specifically performed during this trimester. These include the following:

Physical Exam

This includes checking the position of the baby and the dilation of the cervix. Doctor’s examine this time to time before the due date and sometimes even earlier to ensure a smooth delivery. Ultrasound determines the position of the baby since the head needs to rest appropriately above the mother’s cervix to make the delivery less painful for the mother.

Hematocrit Test

Many doctors keep checking the blood count until the last minute to avoid anemic conditions for the mother.

Group B STREP

The streptococcus screening helps in identifying any severe abnormalities such as hearing loss, mental retardation, impaired vision etc. This involves vaginal and rectal swab tests to help determine the onset of any disease that may be transmitted from the mother to the child. The doctors medicate the mother to avoid the passage of bacteria during or before child birth.

Routine Tests

Routine tests in the third trimester of pregnancy include the checkup of protein levels, glucose levels and blood pressure.

Ultrasounds

Biophysical Profile

This is an ultrasound along with another test called the Non-stress Test. This helps in determining fetal heartbeat, fetal health, amniotic fluid count and also the overall health of the baby.

Electronic Fetal Heart Monitoring

This helps in keeping track of the fetal heart rate. It is carried out throughout the last trimester to ensure the safe birth of the baby.

Contraction Stress Test

Sometimes, contractions can be very stressing for the baby causing severe damages to both the mother and the child. This test involves testing the response of the baby’s heart rate to contractions. It is usually employed in high-risk pregnancies.