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How and why a biochemical analysis is done during pregnancy - preparation and conduct of the study. The results of decoding the biochemical blood test in pregnant women

Pregnancy is a period of continuous tests and examinations. One of the most important studies can be safely called a biochemical blood test, which allows you to determine the health status of not only the mother, but also the child. It is thanks to him that the attending physician will be able to immediately see the development of certain pathologies in the body of a pregnant woman.

In this article, we will tell you in detail what this biochemical analysis is, how to take it correctly, how many days it is done and how to decipher the data obtained.

What does biochemical analysis show during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a whole bunch of changes in the female body. It all starts from the molecular level, that is, from metabolic processes. A biochemical blood test allows you to examine and check in detail the work of protein, lipid and carbohydrate metabolism.

The breakdown of products occurs in the liver, therefore biochemistry refers to the so-called hepatic tests, the purpose of which is to characterize the state of the body not only as a whole, but also at the level of individual organs or organ systems.

When a doctor can order such an analysis

A blood test for biochemistry is given by a woman several times throughout her pregnancy. This is a mandatory procedure that is carried out regardless of the health condition of the expectant mother.

The first time the doctor prescribes a blood test before the pregnant woman is registered with the antenatal clinic. At 18–20 weeks, you should donate blood for analysis again. And of course, blood sampling is indispensable in the final of an interesting situation - at week 30.

If the pregnancy is going well, three times will be sufficient to monitor the condition. But if there is a suspicion of the presence of serious diseases in a woman in labor, you should be checked again.

In this case, the gynecologist will check the risk of developing:

  • kidney disease;
  • liver failure;
  • cancers;
  • infectious diseases;
  • systemic diseases.

Preparation for the test

Before donating blood for biochemistry during pregnancy, you should adhere to certain preparation rules:

  1. There is nothing to eat 8 hours (or better, all 12) before the test. Pregnant women are allowed only to drink water, and even then still.
  2. You should also stop taking medications. In the event that this is not possible (for example, during treatment with glucocorticosteroids, when it is very important to follow the regimen), it is necessary to warn the nurse and doctor about this.
  3. Strong physical activity is prohibited.

If the pregnant woman does not comply with these rules, the research results will be distorted, respectively, the wrong treatment will be prescribed, and this can easily affect the child's health.

How to take a biochemical blood test

Blood is drawn from the cubital vein.

The process of donating blood for biochemistry includes the following rules:

  1. Blood can be donated only in the morning and on an empty stomach.
  2. You need to monitor how tight the tourniquet is on your arm. If it is too tight, the level of protein, for example, rises. This can lead to the formation of false conclusions by the attending physician.
  3. Do not make sudden movements, as this will lead to fluctuations in the level of the analyzed substances in the blood.

If the results of the analysis showed small deviations from the norm, in no case should you think that you can no longer go to the doctor, because everything is fine. Minimal deviations can be the first sign of a serious or even incurable disease. Therefore, you need to familiarize your doctor with the results of any research, including a biochemical blood test.

What will high or low protein tell about?

A person is an organism of protein origin from a biological point of view, therefore the most important and most important indicator of a biochemical blood test will be the level of total protein.

Normally, in healthy adults, the concentration of protein in the blood is 65–85 g / l. During pregnancy, this figure drops to 55–65 g / l - for pregnant women, it is these figures that are considered the norm. This is due to an increase in the blood plasma volume of a pregnant woman, but a decrease in red blood cells - erythrocytes. Especially low protein levels are observed in the third trimester and even during lactation, that is, breastfeeding.

In addition to the value of the total protein, the concentration of albumin and globulins separately is indicated in the results of biochemical analysis.

About 60% of the total protein is albumin. The role of this protein substance in the body is to transport nutrients to their destination (to a specific organ). As the number of red blood cells in pregnant women decreases, the albumin also decreases.

In the 1st trimester, the albumin rate is 32-50 grams per liter; in the 2nd trimester - 28–56 g / l; in 3 - 26-66 g / l.

Globulins are a constituent part of proteins that are involved in inflammatory processes. Normally, there should not be many globulins in the body (28–112 g / l). An abundant amount of globulins in the blood of a pregnant woman indicates hyperproteinemia.

However, it also happens that the level of protein in the body is significantly reduced in comparison with the norm. When does this happen?

Decreased protein indicates the appearance or presence of diseases such as:

  • liver failure, which prevents optimal protein absorption by the body;
  • cancer;
  • hyperthyroidism (in other words: thyrotoxicosis) is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid-stimulating hormones;
  • hereditary diseases (for example, hepatocerebral dystrophy, which is characterized by impaired absorption of copper (Cuprum), as a result of which the central nervous system is affected);
  • renal failure;
  • internal bleeding;
  • an excess of water, which leads to the development of ascites, abdominal dropsy (accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity) and hydremia (an increase in the amount of water in the blood, which leads to a decrease in the number of red blood cells);
  • acute poisoning;
  • malabsorption (impaired absorption of nutrients by the small intestine);
  • an inflammatory process in the alimentary canal, due to which the absorption of proteins worsens.

It is even worse if pregnant women have high protein levels.

This may indicate presence:

  • infectious diseases;
  • oncological formations that are characterized by overproduction of protein - for example: myeloma (this is a tumor of plasma cells), lymphogranulomatosis (in other words: Hodgkin's disease) is a tumor of lymphoid tissue;
  • autoimmune diseases, which are associated with a dysfunction of the human immune system, when T-lymphocytes (immune cells) begin to fight their own tissues, perceiving them as foreign;
  • dehydration, which occurs due to frequent diarrhea or vomiting.

A condition in which the level of protein in the body is lowered is called hypoproteinemia (protein is protein); and a disease characterized by an increased concentration of protein in the blood is called hyperproteinemia.

In any case, the doctor should exclusively deal with the deciphering of the biochemical blood test. He will also decide whether to consider deviations from the norm as an indicator of illness or just a symptom of pregnancy.

Why is it important to know your glucose level

The state of carbohydrate metabolism can be checked by knowing the concentration of glucose in the blood. Normally for pregnant women it should be 3.5–6.5 mmol / l. After sleeping or after a long hunger strike, the sugar level drops, after eating, it increases.

The glucose level can be checked not only by taking blood from a vein, but also using a glucometer. And since it is very important for a pregnant woman to monitor the concentration of this particular substance, you can check it yourself at any time.

So why is information about the concentration of glucose in the blood of the expectant mother so necessary for doctors?

Pregnant women have a huge risk of developing diabetes. After giving birth, it may disappear, or it may degenerate into permanent type II diabetes. In women with gestational diabetes (ie pregnancy diabetes), the risk of developing type II diabetes increases by 2-4 times!

For more information on gestational diabetes, its symptoms and treatment, see this video:

Bilirubin rate

Bilirubin is a bile pigment that comes in two flavors:

  • direct (associated with the molecules of the transported substances);
  • indirect (free from molecules of other products).

If tests show that there is no direct bilirubin at all, this will be a good sign. But the indirect rate is approximately 3.5–25.0 mmol / l. Small fluctuations in the content of bilirubin in the blood are possible. Usually, there are no problems associated with high or low bilirubin levels in pregnant women.

A slight increase in pathology does not speak, but a significant increase indicates development:

  • hemolytic anemia;
  • cholecystitis;
  • viral hepatitis.

All of these diseases are very serious: they not only negatively affect the health of the mother, but can also lead to premature birth or stillbirth.

However, most often, with an increase in bilirubin in the blood, jaundice appears in a pregnant woman. This is due to stagnation of bile. With a slight increase in the concentration of bilirubin, it can be quickly reduced by a sharp change in air temperature. Why this happens is unknown, but it can be used well.

The level of pigment in the mother's blood is sometimes underestimated. And although this phenomenon is not common, it still needs to be considered. Previously, this was considered a variant of the norm, but now, after research, experts have proven that a low level of bilirubin in the mother's blood indicates the development of coronary heart disease.

For a more detailed analysis of the state of the gallbladder, an ultrasound screening should be performed.

Enzyme changes

The most important enzymes in pregnant women are ALT (alanine aminotransferase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), and GGT (gamma glutamyl transpeptidase). It is their concentration that is determined when conducting a blood test for biochemistry.

The normal level of both alanine and aspartate aminotransferase in a pregnant woman should be 30 - 32 U / ml.

ALT is found primarily in the cells of the liver. AST can be found in almost all human organs (heart, liver, pancreas, lungs, etc.).

You need to be wary when the level of enzymes rises. This may indicate the development of kidney, liver or heart disease. In pregnant women in the 3rd trimester, the level of ALT and AST rises almost always due to severe toxicosis.

How to normalize the results of biochemical analysis in pregnant women - the doctor advises

Experience and research show that health problems in pregnant women begin due to an increase in blood volume and a decrease in the number of red blood cells in it.

To normalize the results of biochemical analysis, you should adhere to these recommendations.

Eating iron-rich foods to restore blood hemoglobin levels:

  • "Vitamin bomb": mix walnuts, dried apricots, dates, raisins and figs, crush, add lemon juice and honey - take one tablespoon twice a day;
  • meat products: liver, veal, beef;
  • fruits: pomegranates, apples, oranges;
  • dried fruits: walnuts, dried apricots;
  • porridge: buckwheat, oatmeal;
  • legumes: beans, peas, soy;
  • seaweed;
  • quail eggs.

Twice a day, in the morning and in the evening, before meals, steam and take decoctions and infusions of a mixture of medicinal herbs:

  • chamomile;
  • dog nettle;
  • mint;
  • st. John's wort.

Doctors do not recommend taking synthetic drugs.

Conclusion

As you can see, a biochemical blood test in pregnant women is the most important diagnostic method.

Thanks to him, it is possible to prevent many dangerous diseases of the mother and save the life of an unborn child.

A biochemical blood test during pregnancy is important; it is used to assess the state of her health. You need to pass it correctly so as not to worry about the result.

Every woman is looking forward to the onset of pregnancy, and after the birth of a child. But this period is very important for her, because often the baby's health, his well-being depends on how she followed the doctor's prescriptions. Therefore, it is important to take all tests on time, including a biochemical blood test during pregnancy. When are these tests done, and how does it go? We will talk about this in this article.

When is a biochemical blood test usually taken during pregnancy? How many times is it done? The doctor will prescribe the first examination when you come to the hospital to register. The second time, such an analysis is necessarily done at 30 weeks, i.e. during the 3rd trimester. But, if the doctor deems it necessary, he can prescribe additional examinations. Therefore, it is impossible to say exactly how many times you need to donate blood for biochemistry.

Women in the position have other examinations, for example, biochemical screening. A venous blood test is also done. But it is not prescribed to everyone, but to those women who may have any deviation in the development of the child, for example, after taking certain medications. An analysis for blood clotting or a coagulogram is also done. Deciphering it is the responsibility of the doctor, but, for example, the bird rate should be from 78 to 142%. If this figure is too high, then this suggests that women have a tendency to thrombosis. It is not necessary for a pregnant woman to delve into all these details. One thing is required of her - to take a blood test, and everything that needs to be done after that, what is wrong, and how to correct the situation, must be decided by the doctor.

results

What does a biochemical blood test show in pregnant women? Why is it needed, is it so necessary? This blood test must be performed on pregnant women to assess her health. Then all deviations from the norm can be detected in time, and, if necessary, the doctor will prescribe treatment for the woman after the examination, while there is no threat to the child's health. How are the test results evaluated? We will not go into detail about this, in brief, you can find out more about them later, from the doctor, and in a few words we will inform you what is usually paid attention to when evaluating a biochemical blood test in a pregnant woman. Find out what's what, this table will help you.

We will briefly describe how to evaluate the results obtained.

  1. Protein. How much protein should a healthy woman have? The protein norm is from 63 to 83 g / l. But this is up to the 3rd trimester. After a while, after that, its amount can decrease to 55 - 65 g / l. If the indicators are different, then something is wrong in the body. But it could also be due to dehydration. This test should not be confused with urinalysis. In it, an increased protein can show that the expectant mother has gestosis. This is a dangerous disease that has other symptoms as well.
  2. Cholesterol. Biochemistry shows how much cholesterol is in the blood. How to understand how much it should be? The norm is from 1.15 to 5.8 mmol / l. But is an increase in cholesterol acceptable? But in pregnant women, it can be up to 6.2, but the numbers above indicate that she is developing atherosclerosis.
  3. Glucose. Glucose is a vital component. How much, how much should there be? During pregnancy, it is allowed if the blood glucose is from 3.5 to 5 mmol / l.
  4. Insulin. This is a hormone produced by the pancreas. Is it important? Yes. If very little insulin is present, women may develop gestational diabetes during pregnancy. If the analysis shows a reduced amount of insulin, then during the second trimester, an additional study is carried out for the amount of glucose in the blood.
  5. Enzymes. What else is important to check during pregnancy? The amount of enzymes needed. Does it really matter? If the tests are bad, then this may indicate the presence of any diseases. How many, how many enzymes should there be? So, the level of aspartate aminotransferase should not exceed 32 U / L, if there is an excess of the norm, then this shows that the woman has gestosis.

If the test is bad, you can ask your doctor what is abnormal, is it dangerous, and how you should be treated. If you doubt the doctor's words, you can consult on the Internet, now on some sites you can ask questions online, ask if everything is fine with you. How the decoding of a biochemical blood test is done is known to any qualified doctor, through whom hundreds of patients pass every day.

Preparing for a blood test

How to take a biochemical blood test? Blood is taken from a vein. If you want the indicators to be correct, there were no deviations from the norm, it is important to donate blood correctly. How to do it? What preparation is needed?

  1. Come to the analysis hungry, i.e. you can't have breakfast. Does it really matter? Yes, it is important, otherwise the analysis may show that the sugar is increased, there will be other deviations from the norm. During pregnancy, you cannot starve, but you can eat after donating blood.
  2. Avoid fatty foods. During pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, a woman is very selective in food, moreover she does not drink alcohol. But still, you should know that before taking the test, you cannot eat a lot of fatty, sweet, fried, spicy, drink alcohol. And after that it is better to refuse such food.
  3. Protect yourself from stress. During pregnancy, you cannot work hard, worry a lot, therefore it will not be difficult to comply with this point. No stress, no physical strain, forget about the sauna. Make up for lost time after the birth of a child i.e. go in for sports and go to the sauna.
  4. Don't smoke before surrendering. If you fail to quit, then at least do not smoke 1 or 2 hours before the procedure, smoke after.
  5. Tell your doctor in advance what medications you are taking.
  6. Do not hurry. Could this affect the test results? Yes. Therefore, before going to the doctor's office, sit, calm down, leave it for 15 or 20 minutes.

As we can see, there is nothing difficult in passing tests, millions of women go through this procedure, and not only those who find themselves in an interesting position. It is also not worth worrying about the results of the analysis. Modern medicine has long been coping with even serious illnesses, and if deviations from the norm are detected in time, you can easily correct the situation and start treatment.

During pregnancy, each woman undergoes a series of examinations, thanks to which it is possible to judge the state of her health. Such studies include a biochemical blood test. It is mandatory when registering, at 20 and 30 weeks of pregnancy. This analysis allows you to evaluate the work of the liver, kidneys, cardiovascular system, pancreas and other important organs, as well as to determine the content of trace elements in the body of the expectant mother.

How do I prepare for the analysis?

Blood is taken from a vein on an empty stomach. At least 8, and ideally 12 hours should elapse between the last meal and the test. During this period, only water is allowed. For 1-2 days and analysis, it is better to refrain from taking fatty, smoked and salty foods.

Indicators of a biochemical blood test and their decoding.

Total protein (65-85 g / l)

This indicator is used to judge protein metabolism. The values \u200b\u200bof protein fractions - albumin, alpha-, beta-, gamma-globulins are also estimated, which makes it possible to more accurately judge the state of the body. A slight decrease in total protein (55–65 g / l) is more often observed in the third trimester of pregnancy and is not considered a pathology. If this indicator is reduced in the 1st and 2nd trimesters, this indicates an inappropriate diet or severe toxicosis, liver, kidney and intestinal diseases. An increase in protein content occurs with dehydration and infectious diseases.

Lipid metabolism (cholesterol 3.15-5.8 mmol / l)

His condition is judged by his cholesterol level. If its level is not normal, investigate additional fractions - high and low density lipoproteins (HDL, LDL). At any stage of pregnancy, an increase in cholesterol levels up to 6.2 mmol / L is allowed. But if this figure is higher, then atherosclerosis is developing, and there is a need to follow a special diet and prescribe medications.

Glucose (3.5-5.1 mmol / L) in venous blood.

During pregnancy, glucose levels may be lowered slightly as the growing fetus requires a lot of energy. The lower rate of normal during pregnancy is 3.2 mmol / l. An increase in glucose levels, compared with the norm, makes the doctor alert. Cases of gestational diabetes in expectant mothers are not uncommon.

ALT (up to 32 U / L), AST (up to 30 U / L)

By the level of ALT, one can judge the functioning of the liver and kidneys. By the level of AST - heart, liver, kidneys, nervous tissue. These values \u200b\u200bdo not change during normal pregnancy.

Alkaline phosphatase (up to 150 U / l)

By the level of alkaline phosphatase, the state of the bones and liver is judged. In the 3rd trimester, normally this figure can reach 240 U / l.

Pancreatic amylase (up to 50 U / l)

An increase in this indicator indicates diseases of the pancreas.

Total bilirubin (8.5-20.5 μmol / l)

Bilirubin is a pigment formed during the breakdown of hemoglobin. An increase in total, direct or indirect bilirubin indicates pathology of the liver and biliary tract.

Urea (2.5-6.3 mmol / L)

Renal function indicator. Its increase or decrease indicates a disturbance in the work of the urinary system.

Creatinine (53-97μmol / L)

This is a measure of renal filtration. In the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, the level of creatinine may decrease, the norm is 35–70 μmol / l.

Determination of trace elements is prescribed quite rarely and only to clarify the presence of any disease.

In some laboratories, the normal blood count may differ. These values \u200b\u200bare indicated in a separate column. But it should be remembered that these columns show normal values \u200b\u200boutside of pregnancy.

During the carrying of a child, a woman passes many tests, and one of them is a biochemical blood test. Testing provides an opportunity for the physician to assess the general condition of the expectant mother. In addition, biochemistry shows the "reserves" of its own vitamins and minerals.

A biochemical blood test during pregnancy will be required at least twice. For the first time - when registering. This analysis helps to assess the state of the female body at the time of pregnancy.

The second is at the beginning of the last gestational trimester. It is necessary to track how well the pregnancy is progressing. If necessary, biochemistry can be prescribed additionally.

How to prepare for the test

Preparation for the analysis is standard and includes the following recommendations:

  • it is advisable to donate blood for research in the same laboratory;
  • the material is venous blood, which must be donated strictly on an empty stomach. The "hungry" period of time should be 8 - 12 hours;
  • in the morning you can drink only clean boiled water;
  • you need to eat as usual, but exclude fatty, fried and spicy foods / dishes from the menu.


The preparation carried out in accordance with the given recommendations allows you to get the most reliable results.

Blood biochemistry - decoding indicators

Standard testing includes obtaining such indicators as:

  • total protein;
  • bilirubin;
  • glucose;
  • alkaline phosphatase;
  • urea;
  • creatinine;
  • iron;
  • calcium.

Total protein (OB)

One of the central indicators characterizing the course of protein metabolism. The physiologically acceptable norm is the range of 64 - 83 g / l. During the third gestational trimester, a slight drop in OB is recorded. This is due to an increase in total blood plasma volume. In addition, a decrease in its level can occur as a result of:

  • inappropriate nutrition of a woman;
  • intestinal tract problems;
  • liver and kidney pathology;
  • pancreatic disease;
  • internal bleeding.

An increase in permissible standards can provoke:

  • dehydration;
  • exacerbation of existing infections.

Lipid metabolism

During the period of bearing a baby, special attention is paid to the level of cholesterol. It is he who demonstrates how well the processes of lipid (fat) metabolism proceed.


Cholesterol content is an age indicator. The range of 3.15 - 5.80 mmol / l becomes the standard cholesterol level for a young woman. For the second / third trimesters, its physiological growth is typical to an indicator of 6.00 - 6.20 mmol / l. This is due to the fact that the liver begins to produce more cholesterol. He participates in the construction of the vascular system of the fetus and the child's place.

Advice! Lipidogram is mandatory for women who are overweight (any stage of obesity) and diagnosed diabetes mellitus.

An increase in cholesterol is possible in the following cases:

  • diseases of the hepatic and renal systems;
  • abuse of foods containing a high percentage of fat;
  • due to a lack of thyroid hormones;
  • against the background of diabetes mellitus.

A decrease in cholesterol is observed when:

  • restriction in food;
  • initial toxicosis;
  • pathologies of infectious origin;
  • excessive production of hormones by the thyroid gland.

Triglecerides are fats that provide cells with the energy they need. They can be obtained with food, or produced by the body on its own - hepatocytes, adipose and intestinal tract cells.

The norm for triglycerides is 0.40 - 1.70 mmol / l. During the period of bearing a child, a physiological increase in indicators is observed, starting from the 13th week to a level of 2.70 mmol / l.


An increase in trigleceride levels is recorded in the following pathological conditions:

  • Blood pressure of any stage;
  • high blood sugar levels;
  • lack of thyroid hormones;
  • inflammation of the pancreas;
  • renal and hepatic diseases.
  • following a strict diet;
  • pulmonary pathologies;
  • pathological activation of thyroid function.

Carbohydrate metabolism

It is carbohydrates that are responsible for providing the body with the necessary energy. Doctors call glucose levels an important diagnostic indicator. Normally (for venous blood), it should not go beyond 1.40 - 5.90 mmol / l.

Glucose levels can change during pregnancy. In the overwhelming majority of cases, it decreases slightly, which is explained by the more active process of insulin production and the production of placental hormones.

A blood glucose test is a mandatory test for all pregnant women. When determining deviations and suspicion of the formation of gestational diabetes mellitus, the analysis is carried out somewhat more often. An increase in blood sugar occurs:

  • with diabetes mellitus;
  • endocrine pathologies;
  • with diseases of the pancreas;
  • abnormalities in the work of the liver and kidneys;
  • stressful situations.


A drop in the indicator is typical for:

  • hepatic pathologies;
  • deviations in the work of the thyroid and pancreas.

Bilirubin

The formation of bilirubin is the result of the breakdown of hemoglobin. Determination of its level is mandatory for every pregnant woman. The norm for bilirubin is 5 - 21 μmol / l. For the period of pregnancy, a change in permissible standards is atypical. An increase in bilirubin is noted in the following cases:

  • anemic conditions;
  • vitamin B12 deficiency.

Advice! With an increase in the level of bilirubin to 27 - 34 μmol / l, a woman is diagnosed with jaundice. In this case, the sclera of the eyes and skin are stained yellow.

A decrease in blood bilirubin is noted:

  • with coffee abuse;
  • excessive amounts of vitamin C;
  • while taking certain medications.

Deciphering enzyme indicators

Enzymes are specific proteins that are catalysts and are involved in many biochemical processes. Diagnostic interest are:

  • alkaline phosphatase;
  • pancreatic amylase.

The norm of alananaminotransferase (ALT) is not more than 35 units. During the gestation period, this indicator should not increase. Its growth indicates the development of hepatic pathology, as well as toxicosis.


The norm of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) is not higher than 31 units. An increase in AST can be recorded when:

  • the development of dropsy;
  • kidney damage of moderate severity.

If a significant increase in the indicator has been diagnosed, then the cause may be:

  • occurred myocardial infarction;
  • pulmonary thrombosis;
  • muscle tissue injury;
  • inflammation of the pancreas in the acute period;
  • violation of the outflow of bile.

The rate of alkaline phosphatase is 40 - 150 U / L. After the 26th week, its increase is recorded almost twofold, which is explained by the production of this enzyme by the tissues of the placenta. An increase in alkaline phosphatase results from:

  • hepatic pathologies;
  • disturbances in the production and outflow of bile.

The enzyme levels can be reduced by:

  • decreased production of thyroid hormones;
  • deficiency of magnesium and zinc.

Pancreatic amylase is produced by cells of the pancreas. The norm is standard and does not depend on the gestational age - no more than 50 units / ml. The increase is due to inflammation of the pancreas.

Assessment of kidney function

In this block of blood biochemistry, the following are of diagnostic interest:

  • urea;
  • creatinine.

The level of nitrogenous substances - urea and creatinine - allows you to assess the excretory function of the kidneys.


The rate of urea in the blood is 2.50 - 6.40 mmol / l. After the 12th week, the level of this indicator falls, which is due to an increase in the total blood volume and the activation of the renal system. The norm during this period is 1.50 - 5.30 mmol / l. A pathological change in the content of urea can cause:

  • renal pathologies, food with a high content of protein products - an increase;
  • liver disease, intoxication of the body, starvation - decrease.

The creatinine rate in healthy women is 53 - 97 μmol / l. After the 13th week, a drop in the indicator to 35 - 70 μmol / l is recorded. An increase in substance can occur as a result of:

  • kidney disease;
  • muscle tissue damage;
  • dehydration;
  • active production of thyroid hormones;
  • increased meat content in the diet of a pregnant woman.

A decrease in the indicator is typical:

  • for a hungry diet;
  • as a result of adherence to the principles of vegetarianism;
  • for taking glucocorticosteroid drugs.

Trace elements

The following trace elements are of diagnostic interest:

  • sodium;
  • potassium;
  • chlorine;
  • calcium;
  • iron.

 —

Sodium is one of the central elements responsible for the regulation of fluids in the human body. Normally, its concentration should not go over the limits of 136 - 145 mmol / l. After the 13th week, the level of the trace element can rise to 150 mmol / L. The reason is its delay in the body.

An increase in the indicator can be diagnosed due to insufficient intake of fluids against the background of intensive excretion (vomiting, stool disorder). The reason for the decline may be:

  • taking diuretics;
  • insufficiency of the thyroid gland.

Advice! Sodium deficiency is bad for the general condition of a pregnant woman. She may feel weak. In some cases, neurological disorders occur.

Potassium is one of the important elements of cells that is directly involved in metabolic reactions, the formation of immune defense. The potassium norm for early gestation is in the range of 3.50 - 5.50 mmol / L. By the beginning of the third gestational trimester, the level rises and can reach 4.50 - 6.60 mmol / L. An increase in potassium content can occur:

  • with the development of renal failure;
  • due to a lack of fluid in the body;
  • overdose of medicines.

A decrease in potassium can be caused by:

  • limited intake of a trace element;
  • indomitable vomiting accompanying toxicosis;
  • diseases of the renal system;
  • diabetes.

A decrease in potassium is fraught with heart rhythm disturbances and muscle weakness.


Chlorine, like sodium, is responsible for maintaining the required water balance. Normally, the indicator reaches 98 - 107 mmol / l. By the thirtieth week, the permissible standard increases slightly and reaches 99 - 115 mmol / l. An increase in the composition of the blood of this trace element may result from:

  • dehydration of the body;
  • renal failure;
  • problems with the functions of the adrenal glands.

A decrease in chlorine level is recorded in the following cases:

  • with frequent vomiting;
  • with uncontrolled intake of diuretics and laxative medications.

Advice! Blood testing for the percentage of potassium, sodium and chlorine is mandatory if a woman has signs of toxicosis and confirmed diabetes mellitus.

The calcium rate is 2.20 - 2.55. But as pregnancy progresses, it is capable of dropping to 2.00 mmol / l. An increase in blood calcium is typical for:

  • renal pathologies;
  • deviations in the work of the parathyroid glands;
  • with excessive use of diuretics.

A decrease in the trace element is characteristic:

  • for advanced renal failure;
  • with inflammation of the pancreas;
  • lack of calciferol.


The iron rate is 7.20 - 30.4 μmol / l. The main problem of pregnant women is the formation of iron deficiency anemia, since iron stores during this period of life are consumed in an increased mode. When diagnosing a pathological condition, the expectant mother is prescribed special medications for admission.

A biochemical blood test in pregnant women is a study included in the list of mandatory ones, since testing allows you to identify existing problems and prevent the development of possible complications.

Venous blood taken on an empty stomach during pregnancy can tell the doctor about the condition of the body and its organs. One of the analyzes during this important period is biochemical analysis.

Monitoring indicators in the normal course of pregnancy occurs only twice: at the beginning of pregnancy and at 30 weeks. Additionally, an analysis can be prescribed for various diseases or suspicion of a deviation.

In the early stages of pregnancy, biochemical analysis helps to identify chronic diseases and pathologies in the organs and systems of the body. At 30 weeks, it is necessary to understand how the body has adapted to new conditions, and whether there are failures in the systems. This allows you to timely prevent possible complications and start prophylaxis or treatment on time.

Indicators of a biochemical blood test during pregnancy:

1. Total protein. Protein metabolism has many functions in the body. Protein values \u200b\u200bshould not go beyond 63 - 83 g / l. Too low or high rates are a signal of pathology occurring in the body. In the third trimester, a slight physiological decrease in protein is sometimes noted, which occurs due to an increase in plasma during this period.

2. Lipid metabolism. Lipids, or in another way fats, help to synthesize various hormones, vitamins and perform many functions. There are 4 main groups of lipids:

Cholesterol. The main indicator of lipid metabolism, which is paid attention to, since it is he who participates in important processes, for example, in the synthesis of vitamin D. Normally, cholesterol indicators during pregnancy are in the range from 3.3 - 6.2 mmol / l.
Neutral fats.
Phospholipids.
Fatty acid.

3. Glucose. An important indicator of the state of carbohydrate metabolism. Glucose levels during pregnancy are slightly lower than those of an ordinary person. The boundaries of the indicators are approximately in the range of 3.3 - 4.4 mmol / l. A high level may cause additional testing due to suspected diabetes.

4. Enzymes.

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT). The index of this enzyme helps to diagnose problems with the heart, liver, kidneys and nerve tissues. Indicators from 7 to 40 U / l are considered the norm. High rates are in moderate or severe gestosis.
Aspartate aminotransferase AST. An increased production of AST may indicate heart problems. The norm during pregnancy are indicators from 10 to 30 U / l.
Alkaline phosphatase. This enzyme is produced in many tissues, but most of all in the liver, bone tissue, kidneys, placenta and intestinal mucous membranes. Indicators from 25 to 90 U / L are considered the norm. Overestimated values \u200b\u200bare a signal of problems with the liver, skeletal system, or damage to the placenta.
Amylase. A digestive enzyme that is produced in the pancreas. Indicators should not exceed 50 U / l. An increase is observed in the pathology of the pancreas.

5. Bilirubin. This bile pigment is formed by the breakdown of hemoglobin. The rates of bilirubin indicators differ depending on the fractions in which it is located:

General. During pregnancy, the normal range is from 3.3 to 17.2 mmol / l.
Straight. A level of 0.3 to 3.0 mmol / L is considered normal.
Indirect. Norms from 1.7 to 13.1 mmol / L.

An increase in indicators can occur in the presence of liver or gallbladder pathologies.

6. Nitrogen exchange.

Urea. The end product of protein breakdown, which is excreted through the kidneys. The norms of this indicator are in the range from 2.5 to 8.4 mmol / l. A deviation from the norm indicates problems with the excretory system.
Creatinine. Participates in the energy metabolism of muscle tissue and is a breakdown product of creatine. Norms during pregnancy range from 45 to 115 mmol / L. A high level may indicate kidney failure.

7. Trace elements. They are necessary for the normal development of the child and the health of the woman.

Potassium. Pregnancy rates: 3.4 - 5.6 mmol / l.
Sodium. The norm is 130 - 150 mmol / l.
Calcium. The norm is 1.15 - 1.30 mmol / l.
Phosphorus. The rate during pregnancy: 0.87-1.45 mmol / l.

It is important to remember that the indicators of the norm of different laboratories may differ, which gives grounds for deciphering the results, based on the experience of the doctor.

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