How To Interpret Your DHA Test Results During Pregnancy?

So you are pregnant and have taken the DHA test to ensure proper growth of your baby, but are confused as to what the results might mean?

Fret not! You’ve landed on the right page.

In this blog, we will discuss how you can interpret the OmegaScoreP DHA test results. But first, let us discuss a few common queries people have when it comes to DHA tests.

What Is A DHA Test?

A DHA test is a safe and non-invasive procedure to evaluate the Omega-3 DHA levels in your blood during pregnancy. These tests are super simple and do not require any fuss. For instance, LifeCell’s OmegaScore P can test the DHA levels in your blood from the comfort of your home. All you need to do is follow the detailed instruction manual, collect your sample, and mail it back to the labs. Voila! You get physician-approved DHA test results within days.

Why Do You Need To Take A DHA Test?

This question tops the FAQ list when it comes to DHA testing. The answer is quite straightforward. You should opt for this test as it helps to track your DHA levels. And DHA as you already know plays an important role in the growth and development of your baby. A DHA Test is useful for pregnant mothers because in a way it works like a dashboard of a car that indicates whether the DHA supplements and suggested diet is working for them or not.

DHA stands for Docosahexaenoic Acid which is an essential component of the cell membranes, retina, and most importantly, the human brain.¹ It supports eye, brain and central nervous system development in the baby.^2,3 Whereas for mothers it can prevent risks like preterm birth, high blood pressure (preeclampsia), or post-delivery depression.^4,5,6 

Unfortunately, our bodies do not produce this compound naturally.¹ So expecting and lactating mothers are advised to consume approximately 200 mg of DHA every day.⁷ The DHA test results can help you monitor these levels throughout the pregnancy and figure out if your intake is sufficient or not.

What Do Your DHA Test Results Mean?

If you have already taken a DHA test and are looking for some clarity about your results, here it goes. LifeCell’s OmegaScore-P test results arrive within 7-8 days on a convenient online dashboard. The customized dashboard gives you an insight into your DHA readings. The result will be categorised into one of three brackets: below average, average, and above average.

If your test readings are within the recommended range, your DHA levels are normal and will contribute towards a healthy and full-term pregnancy. However, if the test readings are below the recommended range they indicate low DHA levels and you may want to address this with your doctor.

What To Do After You Get Your DHA Test Results?

It is recommended that you have a discussion with your doctor after you get the results. You can also schedule a consultation with LifeCell’s medical experts to better understand your results. In addition, you may start including DHA in your diet in case you have low levels in your system. Algae oil supplements, cold-water fishes, and fish oil supplements make for good sources of DHA while pregnant.⁸ OmegaScore P DHA test can be repeated after an interval of 4 weeks to check if recommended diet and supplements are working.

In Conclusion

It is important to interpret and understand your DHA test results correctly. You should consult your doctors and consider personalized recommendations once you get the reports. This will help you modify your lifestyle and nutrition intake during pregnancy in the most effective manner. Consistent monitoring through DHA tests can ensure the appropriate growth and development of the baby during pregnancy.