Pregnancy test
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A pregnancy test is used to determine if a woman is pregnant. It is usually performed when a health professional or a woman suspects she is pregnant, or before using clinical services that may interfere with a pregnancy. This is done by analysing a sample of urine or blood for the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). |
For more information, see Pregnancy Test.
Obstetric ultrasound
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Some women will realise they are pregnant if they experience symptoms such as frequent urination, nausea (morning sickness), and a late period. However, pregnancy can be confirmed using a urine test available at pharmacies. An obstetric ultrasound may also be used to diagnose pregnancy and to estimate a due date. |
For more information, see Obstetric Ultrasound.
Tool: Pregnancy due date
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Enter the date of your last menstrual cycle to calculate your expected pregnancy due date. |
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1. Select your last Menstrual Date:
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Expected Due Date:
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The information presented here is for general purposes only and should not be used to make diagnosis or treatment decisions. For specific information about your health you should see a health professional. |
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Amniocentesis
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Pregnancy investigations are procedures used to diagnose complications or foetal abnormalities. Amniocentesis involves inserting a needle into the uterus to withdraw a sample of amniotic fluid. |
For more information, see Amniocentesis.
Patient experience: Sarah tests her foetus’s DNA and her will
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If the baby is discovered to have a severe disability, through an amniocentesis, parents can choose whether they would like to continue or terminate the pregnancy. Sarah found this investigation not only tested her baby’s DNA but also her strength to stand for what she believes in. |
For more information, see Patient experience: Sarah tests her foetus’s DNA and her will.
More information
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For more information about pregnancy, including preconception advice, stages of pregnancy, investigations, complications, living with pregnancy and birth, see Pregnancy. |
All content and media on the HealthEngine Blog is created and published online for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition. Never disregard the advice of a medical professional, or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest hospital emergency department, or call the emergency services immediately.
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