If you are planning on taking a Medichecks test with us while pregnant, it is important to know that some biomarker readings can be affected depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy.
If you are unsure about whether a test is right for you, we recommend you contact your doctor before ordering.
Please see below for biomarker changes in your third trimester.
For changes in your first trimester, click here.
For changes in your second trimester, click here.
Third trimester (27 weeks – birth)
In the third trimester of pregnancy, the following biomarkers increase:
- Progesterone and oestrogen (continuing to support foetal development)
- Prolactin
- Cholesterol and triglycerides (in response to hormone changes and for increased foetal energy supply).
- ALP/alkaline phosphatase (the foetus is developing more bone during this trimester)
The following biomarkers may decrease:
- Haemoglobin (this is due to an increase in blood volume, will seem lower due to dilution)
- Albumin and other proteins (this is also due to the increase in blood volume as above)
The following biomarkers may not change much:
- LH (remains very low)
- FSH (remains very low)
- Lipoprotein(a) (remains elevated)
- Hs-CRP (remains mildly elevated – there is a slight inflammatory response during pregnancy)
These changes are expected and normal. However, if you have any concerns about your blood test results, we recommend you seek medical advice for further guidance.
Will I get specific reference ranges for my test?
Our laboratories are unable to provide pregnancy-specific reference ranges. The reporting doctor will refer to some Perinatology reference ranges, or those from Gloucestershire University Hospital Trust.
If you purchased your test before you knew you were pregnant, you can still cancel your test within 30 days of purchase. Please contact our Customer Care Team if you need further help or information.
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