During your first trimester testing is needed to make sure you and baby are healthy.

Most women book with us for antenatal care during their first trimester. During your initial booking appointment, we will arrange a range of blood tests and other routine investigations if these have not already been completed by your GP. We will also discuss the screening options available for Down syndrome and other chromosomal conditions.

Our clinic has an on-site ultrasound scanner, allowing us to confirm your estimated due date, check your baby’s heartbeat, and determine whether you are expecting one baby or twins.

For more detailed information about medical tests during pregnancy, you can download our booklet on pregnancy testing here.

As part of your antenatal care, we recommend a number of routine screening tests in line with current New Zealand pregnancy care guidelines. These tests help assess your health and identify any conditions that may affect you or your baby during pregnancy.

Full Blood Count (FBC)
This blood test checks for anaemia and assesses your overall blood health. Anaemia is common in pregnancy and can affect your energy levels and wellbeing if left untreated.

Blood Group and Antibody Screen
This test confirms your blood group and Rhesus (Rh) status (positive or negative) and screens for blood group antibodies. Certain antibodies can affect your baby’s red blood cells during pregnancy, so early identification is important.

Rubella Immunity Screening
This test checks whether you are immune to rubella (German measles). Most women in New Zealand have been vaccinated during childhood, but some may have reduced immunity. Rubella infection during pregnancy can affect a developing baby.

Hepatitis B Screening
This screening checks for hepatitis B infection or previous exposure. If a mother carries hepatitis B, there is a risk of passing the infection to her baby during birth. Effective treatments and vaccinations are available to significantly reduce this risk.

Syphilis Screening
Syphilis testing is routinely recommended during pregnancy in New Zealand. Early detection and treatment are highly effective in preventing infection being passed to your baby.

HIV Screening
HIV screening is recommended for all pregnant women in New Zealand. If HIV is identified during pregnancy, treatment can greatly reduce the risk of transmission to your baby and support ongoing maternal health.

Mid-Stream Urine (MSU) Test
A urine sample is used to check for urinary tract infections or bacteria in the urine, which can increase the risk of kidney infections and pregnancy complications if untreated.

HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)
This blood test measures your average blood sugar levels over the previous few months and helps identify previously unrecognised diabetes or an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. Risk factors include being overweight, having polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or a family history of diabetes.