Planning for a new life to enter your world is an exciting and critical time, but before you embark on this journey, it's essential to ensure both you and your partner are in the best  health possible. That's where preconception care comes in. Although there’s no specific, one-size-fits-all list of pre-pregnancy tests, your doctor may suggest certain screenings based on factors like your age, pregnancy goals, and any existing health conditions you may have.
So, if you're planning to get pregnant in the near future, consider this as your complete guide to pre-pregnancy testing. Here, we’ll highlight doctor recommended tests and consultations  that can help ensure you’re both physically and mentally prepared for the road ahead. A comprehensive preconception health check-up can help identify potential issues that could impact your fertility, the health of your future child, and even your own wellbeing during pregnancy. From blood tests and genetic counseling to mental health evaluations and immunisation status, there are numerous factors to consider. Here are important tests to consider before planning to conceive:

 

Health Checklist Preconception 

1. General Health Assessment

• Physical Examination: A comprehensive health check to assess overall wellness, weight, and any underlying conditions that could affect your fertility or pregnancy, such as hypertension or diabetes.
• Blood Pressure: It's important to ensure blood pressure is in a healthy range before conception, as high blood pressure can increase the risk of complications like preeclampsia during pregnancy.

 

Related story: Planning A Pregnancy? Things To Know Before You Conceive

 

2. Reproductive Health for Male

• Semen Analysis: Semen analysis is a key test for men, assessing sperm count, motility, and morphology. Poor sperm quality can sometimes make it more difficult to conceive.
• Testicular Exam: To check for any abnormalities or signs of infection that may interfere with fertility, such as varicocele or undescended testes.

Reproductive Health for Female

• Pelvic Exam: A pelvic exam helps assess the health of the reproductive organs, checking for conditions like fibroids, ovarian cysts, or endometriosis, which may affect fertility.
• Pap Smear: Routine screening for cervical cancer and HPV, both of which can impact fertility or lead to complications during pregnancy.
• Breast Exam: Early detection of breast abnormalities such as lumps or changes can help address any issues before pregnancy.
• Ultrasound: An ultrasound may be recommended to assess the health of the ovaries and uterus, checking for any abnormalities that could interfere with a healthy pregnancy.

 

Related story: Prenatal Yoga Flow For The Second And Third Trimester

 

3. Blood Tests for Both Genders

• Blood Type and Rh Factor: It's important to check for compatibility with your partner’s blood type to prevent Rh incompatibility, which can cause complications during pregnancy.
• Iron Levels: Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which may affect your energy levels and the health of your pregnancy.
• Thyroid Function: Thyroid imbalances (such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) can affect fertility and the course of a pregnancy, so it's important to ensure your thyroid is functioning properly.
• Folate Levels: Folate is crucial for the early development of a baby’s neural tube. Ensuring sufficient folate levels before conception is vital to reduce the risk of birth defects like spina bifida.
• CMV (Cytomegalovirus) and Herpes Testing: These viruses can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, so testing for them beforehand is important.
• Hepatitis B, C, HIV, Syphilis: Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) ensures both partners are healthy and can prevent the transmission of infections that could affect pregnancy.
• Toxoplasmosis: Ensuring immunity against toxoplasmosis helps reduce the risk of infections that can harm the baby during pregnancy.
• Vitamin D and B12: Both of these vitamins are essential for fertility and overall health. Low levels can contribute to infertility or complications during pregnancy.
• Screening for Diabetes: If you have a family history of diabetes or other risk factors, it’s essential to test your blood sugar levels before pregnancy to manage any underlying issues.

 

Blood Tests Specifically for Men

• Fertility Hormones: Hormones like testosterone, FSH, and LH play a crucial role in sperm production. Testing these levels can help identify any underlying fertility issues.
• STI and STD Screening: Testing for common STIs such as HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and hepatitis helps ensure the health of both partners.
• inc Levels: inc is essential for sperm health and proper reproductive function, so testing and correcting any deficiencies may improve fertility.

Book your blood tests now with UR.Life

 

Related story: Pregnancy, Post-Partum, Depression, And Parenting

 

4. Genetic Counseling (if applicable)

For women with a family history of genetic disorders or those over the age of 35, genetic counseling can be beneficial. Genetic counseling can help assess the risks of passing on hereditary conditions to your baby, and offer guidance on potential testing options or prenatal screening.

 

5. Immunisation Status

Before conception, it’s important to ensure all your vaccinations are up-to-date. Key vaccines to check include:

• Rubella (German Measles): To ensure immunity, as rubella can cause serious birth defects.
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella): Ensuring you are immune to these diseases helps protect both you and your baby.
• Chickenpox (Varicella): If you’ve never had chickenpox or been vaccinated, getting the vaccine before pregnancy is important to prevent complications.
• Influena: The flu vaccine is recommended to protect both you and your baby from seasonal flu.

 

Related story: Pregnancy At 35: What To Expect

 

6. Mental Health Check

Mental health plays an often underestimated role in fertility and pregnancy outcomes. Conditions like anxiety, depression, and chronic stress can impact hormonal balance, ovulation, and even conception. It’s important for both partners to discuss any mental health concerns they may have with a healthcare provider before trying to conceive. Addressing these issues early on can help improve overall wellbeing and increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.

 

7. Dental Check-Up
Dental health is an essential aspect of preconception care that should not be overlooked. Poor oral health, including gum disease and untreated cavities, has been linked to complications such as preterm labor, low birth weight, and even gestational diabetes. A dental check-up before pregnancy helps to identify any existing dental issues that could impact your health and the health of your baby. Gum infections can lead to bacteria entering the bloodstream, potentially causing serious pregnancy complications. It's advisable to visit your dentist for a thorough cleaning and examination, and address any cavities or gum disease prior to conception. If needed, your dentist can offer guidance on maintaining good oral hygiene throughout pregnancy, as some dental treatments may need to be postponed or adjusted during this time.

 

Related story: The Best Breathing Exercise For a Smooth Pregnancy and Easy Delivery

 

Additional Considerations for Both Partners

• Lifestyle Modifications: Adopting a healthier lifestyle can significantly improve your chances of conceiving. Both partners should aim to maintain a balanced diet, regular exercise, and manage stress. Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and recreational drugs is crucial, as these can harm fertility and pregnancy health.
• Weight Management: Being either underweight or overweight can affect fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper nutrition and exercise can improve reproductive health and support a healthy pregnancy.
• Avoid Environmental Toxins: Exposure to chemicals, pesticides, and environmental toxins can negatively affect fertility. Consider reducing exposure to harmful substances and choosing organic foods, cleaning products, and personal care items when possible.
• Preconception Supplements: Both partners may benefit from taking prenatal vitamins or fertility supplements, especially folic acid, which can prevent neural tube defects in the baby. Men may also consider supplements like inc, selenium, and CoQ10, which are important for sperm health.

 

Preconception care is about preparing both your body and mind for the exciting and life-changing journey of parenthood. By undergoing a thorough check-up, addressing any health concerns, and taking proactive steps to optimise fertility, you and your partner can set the foundation for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. Remember, preconception care is a team effort, so both partners should be involved in the process to ensure the best possible outcomes. Taking the time to address these health considerations before pregnancy will not only improve your chances of conception but will also help ensure a safe, healthy, and fulfilling pregnancy experience.