Third Trimester Surrogacy Tests: What to Expect

Reaching the third trimester is a meaningful moment. The final stage is approaching, and the baby is close to arrival. This part of the surrogacy journey includes important medical checkpoints.

Knowing what to expect for third-trimester surrogacy tests and the broader medical process helps Intended Parents feel prepared. At Simple Surrogacy, we want you to know what to expect at every stage.

Third Trimester Surrogacy Tests and What They Involve

Before going into the specific tests, it helps to understand that the surrogacy process involves careful, ongoing medical oversight from start to finish. Here is a breakdown of the tests your Surrogate may undergo during this period:

General Monitoring

At each appointment, the Surrogate provides a urine sample. This is tested for protein, glucose, bacteria, and signs of dehydration. Blood pressure is checked, along with uterine growth and the baby’s heartbeat at every visit.

Amniocentesis

This is typically a second-trimester test, but it may be recommended in the third trimester if a non-invasive chromosome screening returns an abnormal result. A small amount of amniotic fluid is removed and tested for cells shed by the fetus. The procedure is brief and causes only minor discomfort.

Kick-Count Test

Also called the movement test, this is ordered when a Surrogate is past her due date, reports low fetal movement, or is carrying multiples. The Surrogate lies on her side and counts how long it takes to feel 10 distinct movements. The time this takes can range from a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Non-Stress Test

This test is typically ordered following a poor kick-count result, and may also be routine for Surrogates carrying multiples or those diagnosed with gestational diabetes, sometimes as early as 26 weeks.

A monitor tracks how the baby’s heartbeat responds to movement. The Surrogate presses a button each time movement is felt, allowing the medical team to compare fetal activity with heart rate patterns. The test usually takes less than an hour.

Group B Streptococcus Test

GBS bacteria can be present without symptoms, but they pose a risk during delivery. Doctors screen for it at around 28 weeks as a precautionary measure.

Cervical Changes

Between 34 and 36 weeks, pelvic exams begin to assess cervical changes. The doctor checks for signs of thinning, shortening, or dilation. These changes help indicate how close labor may be.

Biophysical Profile

This test is reserved for situations involving an overdue pregnancy or specific complications such as low amniotic fluid, reduced fetal movement, or placenta concerns. It combines elements of a non-stress test and a standard ultrasound to give the doctor a fuller picture of fetal wellbeing and help determine whether labor should be induced.

Arriving at the Finish Line Together

No pregnancy follows a perfectly predictable path, and surrogacy is no different. The tests above are intended to closely monitor the Surrogate and the baby. It’s also to give the medical team the information needed to respond quickly if anything requires attention. If you are exploring becoming a Surrogate or are an Intended Parent ready to begin, Simple Surrogacy walks alongside you at every stage of the process.

The third trimester is the final chapter before your family grows. Connect with our team and let us help you get there.

FAQs

Are all third-trimester tests mandatory for every Surrogate?

No. Several tests, such as the biophysical profile and non-stress test, are ordered only when specific conditions arise. Routine monitoring applies to all Surrogates, but additional testing depends on individual health factors, pregnancy history, and the pregnancy’s progression at each stage.

Can Intended Parents be present during third-trimester appointments?

This depends on the agreement between the Intended Parents and the Surrogate, as well as the clinic’s policies. Many Surrogates welcome Intended Parents at key appointments, particularly ultrasounds. This is something both parties discuss and agree on early in the journey.

What happens if a third-trimester test result is concerning?

The medical team determines the appropriate response based on the specific finding. This may mean additional monitoring, a change in care plan, or early induction in some cases. The agency remains in contact throughout to keep all parties informed and prepared.