What is the purpose of routine prenatal screening tests?

Routine prenatal screening tests are designed primarily to detect potential health issues in both the mother and the developing fetus. These tests are crucial for assessing risks, identifying conditions that may affect the pregnancy, and monitoring the overall health of the mother and baby throughout the gestation period.

For instance, these screenings may include blood tests to check for conditions like anemia, infections, and genetic disorders, as well as screening for gestational diabetes and blood pressure levels. By identifying these issues early, healthcare providers can initiate appropriate interventions, provide guidance, and ensure that both the mother and fetus remain safe and healthy.

The other options do not align with the primary focus of routine prenatal screenings. While identifying community resources for parenting and assessing the need for postpartum care are important aspects of maternal and child health, they do not fall under the umbrella of prenatal screening tests. Moreover, diagnosing asthma is unrelated to prenatal screenings, which focus on pregnancy-specific health issues.