Recently, I’ve had many questions about the tests and procedures related to pregnancy and childbirth and what my choices have been. Having done a lot of research when I was expecting my first child, and continuing with every subsequent pregnancy, I’ve shared my insights and personal experiences here. It’s important to note that I’m not a medical professional, so it’s essential to consult your doctor or midwife before making any decisions during your pregnancy.
I tend to believe that some tests and procedures aren’t always necessary but agree to some of them to keep my healthcare providers comfortable and supportive of my preference for minimal intervention in childbirth and postnatal care. Every choice should be carefully considered by couples based on their specific situations.
Prenatal vitamins are a common recommendation, benefiting many, especially if nutritional intake is lacking. However, I typically don’t take them and have my reasons, which I’ll outline below.
Although many standard tests seem unnecessary to me, I agree to undergo some of them. For instance, I monitor my blood levels and vitamin D regularly, so I know I’m not anemic, and after four pregnancies with my husband, I’m confident I don’t have any STDs. I consent to these tests to skip certain after-birth procedures like antibiotic eye drops because I can prove that I don’t have an STD that could pass to the baby.
While ultrasounds and regular heartbeat checks with a Doppler device are debated (owing to possible risks), I usually skip routine checks unless absolutely necessary. For example, I consent to a 20-week ultrasound due to personal health history, specifically because of a previous undiagnosed placenta previa which nearly caused severe complications. That said, I decline other ultrasounds for things like estimating the baby’s size or gender.
For non-high-risk pregnancies, ultrasounds may not even be needed, and experienced professionals can assess the baby’s position and movement without them. Dopplers, although used to check fetal heartbeats, do expose the baby to some radiation, so I usually prefer alternatives like a fetoscope unless occasional Doppler checks during early appointments are essential for my midwife.
I consent to non-invasive urine tests to monitor for sugars or ketones, which could indicate health issues when seen alongside other symptoms like blood pressure changes or headaches. If a urine test suggests a problem, I seek further tests to confirm before agreeing to any treatment.
In contrast, internal exams, which can introduce bacteria without providing much useful information about baby size or position, are off my list unless in labor. At the end of pregnancy, many rely on internal exams to predict labor onset, but they are often inaccurate, so I skip them to save time and avoid unnecessary steps during appointments.
I decline the standard glucose screening because its method—consuming a sugary solution—does not fit my typical diet, leading to potential false positives. Instead, I keep track of my blood sugar over a week, recording it for my healthcare provider. This approach gives a broader view of how my body handles glucose and helps me identify dietary impacts.
If you’re considering this method, research and discussion with your provider is crucial because some might be unfamiliar with it. Present your case confidently, backed by thorough research.
Other optional tests offered during pregnancy can lead to false positives and unnecessary stress, providing information that doesn’t alter my decisions. Since finding serious problems wouldn’t change my pregnancy plans, I refuse those screenings.
Group B Strep (GBS) tests are generally conducted between weeks 25 and 37. Though antibiotics are a common treatment if you test positive, given their impact on gut bacteria and potential long-term effects, I prefer to avoid them. Optimizing beneficial bacteria naturally can help manage GBS risk.
One helpful tip is monitoring fetal movements in the third trimester to ensure the baby is well. Reduced movement might signal issues requiring prompt attention.
Ultimately, whatever a couple decides regarding prenatal care, proper research is essential. It’s okay to question standard practices and make informed decisions that best suit your situation. In future posts, I’ll be discussing specific pregnancy conditions and my stance on birthing options and interventions.
What are your thoughts on pregnancy testing? What do you accept or decline, and why? Share your experiences!
