Pregnancy Health Blood Test
A pregnancy health blood test that includes hormone testing for FSH, LH, oestradiol, and prolactin, along with thyroid hormone (TSH) and vitamin D levels, can provide valuable information during preconception planning or pregnancy.
Pregnancy Health Blood Test
A pregnancy health blood test is essential for ensuring both maternal and fetal well-being during preconception planning or pregnancy. By assessing key hormones such as FSH, LH, oestradiol, and prolactin, along with thyroid hormones (TSH) and vitamin D levels, this comprehensive test provides valuable insights into a woman’s reproductive health. These biomarkers help identify any hormonal imbalances or deficiencies that could affect conception, pregnancy progression, and overall health. Monitoring these levels allows for timely interventions, optimising the chances of a healthy pregnancy and reducing potential risks for both the mother and the baby.
Why have a Pregnancy Health Blood Test?
- Assess Hormonal Levels: The test includes Hormones such as FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), LH (Luteinizing Hormone), Oestradiol, and Prolactin, providing insights into reproductive health and monitoring hormonal changes crucial for conception and pregnancy.
- Evaluate Thyroid Function: It measures Thyroid Hormones including TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone), aiding in the assessment of thyroid function and ensuring thyroid health during pregnancy, as thyroid disorders can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes.
- Monitor Vitamin Levels: The test assesses Vitamin D levels, ensuring adequate vitamin levels essential for maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in calcium absorption, bone health, immune function, and overall pregnancy well-being.
What is tested? - 6 Biomarkers
- Hormones – FSH, LH, Oestradiol and Prolactin
- Thyroid Hormones – TSH
- Vitamins – Vitamin D
Please note:
- Results can take up to 7 working days from the sample being sent in the post.
- Your results will include a doctor’s overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Special Instructions:
- Do not take biotin supplements for two days before this test, discuss this with your doctor if it is prescribed.
- Take your sample between 6am and 10am.
- Avoid vigorous exercise or sexual activity for 48 hours beforehand – both can raise your prolactin level.
- Avoid nipple stimulation or heavy meals before taking the test, as these can increase prolactin levels.
- Take this test two to five days after the start of your period, ideally on day three. It can be taken any time if you do not have periods.
- Take your sample at least 24 hours after any vitamin or mineral supplements.
- Hormonal contraception can affect the results of this test. Taking a break from this and waiting for your periods to restart before your blood test will give more accurate results.
What is the process?
- Our experienced phlebotomist will uncover your right or left arm.
- A tourniquet will be placed around your upper arm. A tourniquet makes it easier for a needle to be placed in your veins by swelling the veins.
- Once the tourniquet is fitted, a small quantity of blood will be drawn into tubes, using a needle.
- After the blood draw is completed, a plaster will be placed onto the site; this can be removed after a couple of hours.
- We will then post your sample to our partner laboratory for analysis.
- You will receive your results within 7 working days after the sample has been sent onto the laboratory.
What do I do with my results?
Your results will include a doctor's overview which should give you all the information you require. If you would like further information, we recommend you visit your GP.
Preparing for your blood test?
- Hydrate – Try to reduce caffeine intake and drink plenty of water before the day of your blood draw, making it easier for our phlebotomist to locate a vein for blood to be drawn from
- Loose Clothing – Our phlebotomist will require access to your arm. Please wear loose clothing to make accessing your arm easier and more comfortable.
- Medication – Please let our phlebotomist know if you are on blood thinners on the day of your blood draw.
Frequently asked questions?
How much blood is taken?
Approximately 8 ml of blood is taken; this is placed into a special tube for transportation to the laboratory.
How long is the appointment?
The appointment is approximately 10 minutes long. Please ensure to arrive early to complete any necessary paperwork that may be outstanding.
What if I'm scared of needles?
It's completely understandable to feel anxious about needles, but please be assured that you are in good hands. Our phlebotomist is experienced and compassionate, and they are here to support you every step of the way. Upon arrival to the clinic, please communicate your concerns to our phlebotomist who will take extra care when carrying out the blood draw.
What if you can't get a blood sample on the day?
Occasionally, we may encounter difficulty in obtaining a blood sample from you. There can be various reasons for this, including insufficient hydration, feeling cold, or having undergone another blood test recently. We'll always offer you another appointment so that we can make another attempt at obtaining the sample.
Finding Hey Baby 4D Stalybridge
Our clinic is easily accessible for expectant parents from Tameside, Glossop, Oldham, Greater Manchester & Stockport. The clinic is 1.5 miles from Tameside General Hospital. Both the railway and bus stations are in close proximity to the clinic.