At week 33 or 34 the last blood tests are done to measure the levels of hemoglobin, red blood cells and iron. Blood coagulation levels are checked and hepatitis B and C, toxoplasmosis, HIV and sexually transmitted diseases are repeated.
Vaginal culture between 35 and 38 weeks of pregnancy detects Streptococcus agalactiae (strep) bacteria. If it is positive, the pregnant woman receives antibiotics.
As the date of birth approaches, periodic fetal monitoring is done to record the baby's heartbeat and to detect the pregnant woman's contractions.
Read the full article on: Surrogate Medical Follow-Up Before and During Pregnancy ( 57).
