*This Omega-3 DHA Testing (Third Trimester) testing kit is provided FREE by MumStuff, you only pay the laboratory at the time of sending your sample for testing.*
The fee payable to the laboratory for testing is £65.
There is considerable amount of published data about the benefits of Omega-3 generally, and specifically Omega-3 DHA in relation to foetal/infant development and growth - with the emphasis being on that if the mums gets it right then it is the baby who benefits!
The laboratory had started offering a new testing service to practices and professionals who look after women during their pregnancy, breast feeding mothers, midwives, nutrition practitioners with a special interest in pregnancy, new babies, etc. They approached us and asked if we would be interested in offering this test to our customers in addition to the Group B Streptococcus Testing Kit we currently promote. This seemed a great opportunity to offer the option of getting this test privately.
This new test is Omega-3 DHA and can be measured from a blood test from the mother during her third trimester and/or her breast milk after she has had the baby. This test is also offered - see .
More than 20,000 studies have been conducted reviewing the effect of Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids on human health, and the vast majority show positive effects.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is one of the most biologically active forms of omega-3 fatty acids. DHA is the critical component of cell membranes in the brain and retina, where it is involved in neural and visual function as well as neurotransmitter metabolism.
The accumulation of DHA begins in the womb and is passed predominantly through the placental.
Higher maternal DHA intake both in pregnancy and lactation is associated with positive infant neurodevelopmental outcomes. Several main stream organisations including the European Food Safety Authority and the World Health Organisation endorse omega-3 supplements for expectant and lactating mothers.
Omega-3 Fish Oil and Pregnancy: Dosage Recommendations
ISSFAL (the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids) has established
a recommended minimum dosage chart:
Pregnant and Lactating Women: 300 mg DHA daily
But how do you know what your DHA level are and the optimal amount you should be taking?
This test answers that question! Results provide the recommendation for the level of DHA supplementation based on your own currnet levels.
How to collect your sample for Omega-3 DHA in Third Trimester?
Testing for Omega-3 DHA during third trimester requires a blood sample. This pack contains two different options for collecting your sample. You can collect your sample by yourself at home following the instructions for the finger prick blood sample, using the TDL TINY SAMPLE. Alternatively, you can take the pack with the blood tube to your GP, GP's Nurse, Midwife, or Private Clinic/Hospital where there will be healthcare worker experienced in taking blood samples. A sample taking fee may be charged for this service.
The testing kit supplied contains all the information you need and a freepost envelope to return the kit to the laboratory.
The fee payable to the laboratory for testing is £65.
For Breastfeeding mums, we also offer a kit to test the DHA and Omega-3 in your breastmilk. Please click .
If you need to up your DHA intake, purchase Zita West's Vital DHA here. Find out more
