Which screening is typically performed at the first prenatal visit?

The screening that is typically performed at the first prenatal visit is blood type and Rh factor testing. This assessment is crucial because knowing the mother's blood type and Rh status plays a significant role in managing her pregnancy. If a mother is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive, it could lead to Rh incompatibility, which may cause hemolytic disease of the newborn if not properly managed.

Detecting the mother's blood type allows healthcare providers to prepare for any potential complications that may arise during pregnancy and labor, ensuring appropriate interventions can be taken. This screening forms a foundational part of prenatal care, setting the stage for monitoring and managing potential blood-related issues throughout the pregnancy.

Other screenings, like ultrasound imaging, genetic testing, and glucose tolerance tests, are also important but are typically conducted at different stages of pregnancy. Ultrasound imaging is often done in the first trimester but is not universally performed at the very first visit. Genetic testing may occur later in the pregnancy or during specific windows based on risk factors. The glucose tolerance test is generally conducted later, around the 24th to 28th week of pregnancy, to screen for gestational diabetes.