Antenatal care. Which tests and when

A variety of tests form an important component of antenatal care. They are performed in association with clinical assessments to evaluate the health of the mother and fetus during pregnancy. This article reviews the tests that are available and those performed routinely during the antenatal care of a patient. Tests commonly used to monitor the various problems and complications that occur in pregnancy are also described. Appropriate interpretation of the results, to ensure a satisfactory outcome at the end of the 9 months gestation, is discussed.