Who needs a pregnancy test?
All patients who have had a period or are 12 years of age and older with a uterus, will need a pregnancy test before surgery. Surgery, procedures, and some medicines can be harmful to a developing fetus. The only way to be absolutely sure that there is no chance of pregnancy is to perform a pregnancy test before any surgery or procedure.
When is the test done?
A pregnancy test will need to be completed within 7 days of your surgery or procedure. Sometimes this is able to be completed at your primary clinic during your History and Physical before coming to Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare. If this is not possible or is not completed, a pregnancy test will be done at Gillette on the day of surgery.
How is it done?
We will use either a urine or a blood sample for this test.
How are the results given to us?
All positive results are given confidentially to the patient. The patient then has the right to decide the best time to share this information. According to Minnesota law, anyone age 17 and younger can give consent to be tested for pregnancy and to have treatment for pregnancy without consent from their parents.
What if there is a pregnancy?
Medical staff and a social worker will be available to assist if there is a pregnancy that was not expected. If there is a pregnancy, the surgeon and the anesthesiologist will decide if the surgery will proceed as scheduled or postponed to another time. The social worker will be available to offer support and help discuss the results. The social worker will also provide a list of community resources that are available for further support.
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team. If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.