Pregnancy screening and testing

The following blood and urine tests are recommended for pregnant women in the Northern Territory (NT). These tests are not compulsory but can help make sure you and your baby are healthy. 

Your doctor or midwife will tell you which tests you should take. You should ask your doctor or midwife to explain the tests and provide written information. 

Blood tests

The following blood tests are recommended for pregnant women:

• full blood examination for iron levels
• blood group and antibody screen
• rubella immunity
• syphilis
• HIV
• hepatitis B
• hepatitis C - only at risk women
• pregnancy diabetes and gestational diabetes
• iron - anaemia.

Other blood tests may be considered, including:

• vitamin D
• cytomegalovirus
• thyroid disease
• toxoplasmosis
• iron studies - if you are anaemic
• varicella. 

If you are blood group negative, you may also be offered an Anti-D injection at 28 weeks, again at 34 weeks and possibly after the birth of your baby. This will depend on your baby's blood type.

Urine tests

The following urine tests are recommended:

• midstream urine - looking for infection
• protein late in pregnancy
• glucose in urine - for detection of diabetes.

Vaginal swabs

The following vaginal swabs may be needed:

• group B streptococcal - low vaginal and rectal swab
• infection swab - if you have signs of a vaginal infection
• broken waters or ruptured membranes - high vaginal swab
• sexually transmitted diseases - first trimester and again at 36 weeks.