Description
A postpartum health and nutrition blood panel is a set of blood tests that can help a doctor monitor a new mother's health after pregnancy. The panel may include tests for nutrients, hormones, and other markers of health.
This panel includes the following test:
Carnitine
Complete Blood Count
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Copper Serum Test
Ferritin Test
Lipid Panel Test / Cholesterol Panel Test
Magnesium Serum Test
Vitamin B12/ Folate Acid
Vitamin D 1,25 Hydroxy
Zinc Blood Test
Fasting recommended.
Additional information about each test is listed below:
Carnitine is an amino acid that helps convert fatty acids into energy and is important for both the mother and baby during pregnancy and lactation.
A complete blood count (CBC) after giving birth can help estimate blood loss and identify patients who may need a blood transfusion. It can also help monitor changes in blood cell counts and other lab values.
A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) is a blood test that can help assess a person's health after giving birth. It can measure levels of electrolytes, blood sugar, protein, and liver enzymes.
A serum copper test can help assess copper levels, which can be important for postpartum health because copper deficiency and excess copper can both impact health.
Ferritin is crucial for postpartum health and nutrition because it acts as the primary iron storage protein in the body, and low ferritin levels indicate iron deficiency, which can lead to significant complications like fatigue, anemia, impaired cognitive function, and even increased risk of postpartum depression, especially if not addressed properly after childbirth when iron needs are high due to blood loss during delivery.
Lipids are crucial for postpartum health and nutrition because they serve as a significant energy source for the recovering mother, contribute to breast milk composition, and play a vital role in hormone regulation, impacting overall well-being, while maintaining healthy lipid levels is essential to mitigate potential risks for cardiovascular health later in life; a balanced intake of healthy fats is key during this period.
Magnesium is important for postpartum health because it helps with muscle relaxation, mood, and sleep. It also supports bone health and immune function.
Vitamin B12 and folate are important for postpartum health because they support the growth and development of both the mother and baby.
Vitamin D,25-dihydroxy (calcitriol) is important for bone health, calcium and phosphorus absorption, and other functions. It's produced in the kidneys from 25(OH)D, another form of vitamin D.
A zinc blood test can be important for postpartum health because zinc helps with healing, immune function, and mental health. Low zinc levels have been linked to postpartum depression and other issues.
