What is a common third trimester screening test?

Gestational diabetes screening is a common third trimester screening test because it assesses the body’s ability to process glucose during pregnancy, which is crucial for the health of both the mother and the fetus. This screening typically takes place between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. Gestational diabetes can lead to complications such as excessive fetal growth and increased risk for cesarean delivery, so early identification is important for managing the condition.

The other choices provided are not typical third trimester screenings. A Pap smear, for instance, is usually performed during early pregnancy or as part of routine gynecological care, while chorionic villus sampling is a first-trimester test used for genetic screening. Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) is usually evaluated during the first trimester as a marker for risk assessment of certain conditions. Therefore, gestational diabetes screening stands out as particularly relevant during the third trimester.