Beyond routine check-ups: Why blood group testing is essential during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a critical period in a woman’s life that causes many physical and emotional changes and affects the health of both- the mother and the baby. This includes the mother’s ability to produce adequate healthy blood cells that not only nourish the embryo but also support their overall well-being. Therefore, early blood tests are inevitable, as they help identify changes and enable doctors to decide on courses of action in case of abnormality, if any.

It is observed that expectant mothers focus primarily on various other medical examinations, including ultrasounds, nutrition, and foetal growth, but often ignore blood tests. This is a serious issue, particularly for Indian women. As per the National Family Health Survey 5 (NHFS 5, 2019-2021), 52.2% of pregnant women in India are anemic- the body’s inability to produce adequate healthy blood cells. This very finding also necessitates blood test during pregnancy to prevent women from life-threatening situations, such as excessive bleeding during childbirth and premature delivery.

Significance of blood tests

Pregnancy confirmation- Pregnancy confirmation is the crucial first step towards ensuring appropriate care and safe delivery. While home pregnancy testing kits help identify a pregnancy, a blood test provides a more accurate result. This confirmation allows early planning and further medication.

Rh compatibility- Normally, blood tests focus on identifying blood type- A, B, AB, or O- and Rh factor, which measures the presence or absence of a specific protein on red blood cells and is indicated as a positive or negative sign on a blood type. But during pregnancy, blood tests not only identify blood type and Rh factor but also check the compatibility of a mother’s blood type with her baby’s blood type.

If a mother and her baby maintain the same Rh factor, either positive or negative, then they are in a compatible condition. The problem arises in the case of a difference in Rh factor, particularly when an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive baby. In such conditions, the mother’s immune system treats the baby’s blood cells as foreign particles and starts fighting with them by producing antibodies, causing many complications. If identified early through blood group testing, this condition can be managed well.

Monitoring hormonal changes- Blood tests also help in monitoring the flow of important hormones. These hormones support embryo growth, baby’s brain and nervous system development, and blood flow to the uterus. However, their low levels can cause complications. Blood tests help monitor their levels and plan actions in case of urgency.

Thalassemia screening and blood sugar testing- Blood tests allow doctors to detect the presence of thalassemia in parents and also screen for gestational diabetes. Early detection will ensure proper treatment and prevent complications that could arise to both the mother and her child.

Infection screening- Blood tests are also required to detect infections in babies passed from mothers, such as HIV, hepatitis B&C, etc. Early detection and treatment ensure a healthy baby.

Early anemia or iron deficiency detection- Anemia is a common health issue among pregnant women. It causes tiredness and may lead to premature delivery. Blood tests help identify the condition and enable doctors to prescribe medication as per the mother’s requirements.

Blood tests during pregnancy not only monitor your health but also ensure your baby’s proper growth. Routine blood tests, including blood type, Rh factor, and complete blood count (CBC), ensure that you get all the required medication and attention on time and prepare you better for delivery. You must include blood tests in your routine check-up schedule.

Dr Parag Biniwale Consultant , Biniwale Women’s clinic , Pune