

The tests you will have depend on your symptoms, medical history, and how far along you are in your pregnancy. Your doctor may do the following tests to find out whether you or your developing baby has an infection:

  • Blood test—Your blood is checked for the number of white blood cells and the presence of antibodies. Antibodies are proteins that your body has made to fight an infection.
  • Culture—The doctor will gently swab your rectum and/or cervix and vagina to see if an infection is present. The swab will then be examined under a microscope.
  • Ultrasound —A device held over the abdomen will bounces sound waves off the uterus and your developing baby. The sound waves make electrical impulses that create a picture of the baby on a video monitor. This helps the doctor check for any fetal abnormalities that might indicate an infection (usually viral) in the mother.