Which tests are commonly performed during the second trimester of pregnancy?

During the second trimester of pregnancy, specific tests are routinely conducted to monitor the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. The quad screen, also known as the quadruple test, is a blood test that measures four substances in the mother’s blood to assess the risk of certain chromosomal disorders, including Down syndrome and neural tube defects.

In addition, an anatomical ultrasound is performed during this trimester to evaluate fetal growth, development, and anatomy. This ultrasound is crucial as it provides valuable information regarding the fetus's health and helps detect potential abnormalities. The combination of these two tests—quad screen and anatomical ultrasound—offers vital insights and helps in making informed decisions regarding the pregnancy.

While blood pressure monitoring is important throughout pregnancy, it is not unique to the second trimester. A urine analysis is also routinely done, but it tends to focus on infections and protein levels rather than the specific screening provided by the quad screen. The complete blood count may be performed, but it is not specific to the second trimester and generally is monitored throughout pregnancy as needed for anemia and other conditions. Hence, the quad screen and anatomical ultrasound are the tests that stand out as key components of second-trimester care.