6 premarital medical tests you should include in your wedding planning
Especially if having children is a part of the life plan
As a veteran in the business of babies, Dr Deepa Vinay Nambiar is used to confounding requests from her patients. But ever so often, the gynaecologist and infertility specialist still finds herself taken by surprise. Like the time a highly accomplished public servant was diagnosed with hepatitis B but refused to tell their partner, and pleaded with Nambiar to stay quiet too. “People worry about what others will say. Whether they will be taunted by their future in-laws over disheartening results from premarital medical tests,” she explains. But it’s important, she insists, especially if you want to have children.
To be clear, it doesn’t matter whether you dated for years or found each other on Shaadi.com — people often keep their health histories a secret, says Nambiar.
Expecting someone to openly talk about taking premarital medical tests can be construed as an insult. But the benefits speak for themselves – a healthy and happy future for the entire family.
Should you submit to premarital medical tests?
Commitment, courtesy, kindness and communication are the foundation stones of a healthy marriage. But we also need to take the ‘health’ part of it literally.
Premarital medical tests check for reproductive issues, genetic disorders and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that can be transferred from one partner to another if the one with the ailment is unaware. Some STIs are common and easily treatable, while others can have long-lasting effects on your health. By detecting these conditions early, couples can reduce the risk of transmission to each other, and complications for their future children. Nobody wants to start their happily ever after with an STI.
Nambiar says, “Couples who are planning to get married soon are advised to conduct the premarital screening at least three months before the marriage date… as the premarital compatibility certificate is valid for only six months.”
Premarital medical tests all couples should take
Serology
Nambiar says you should get tests for HIV 1 and 2, hepatitis B and C, and venereal diseases like syphilis.
Blood tests can check for various health conditions, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sickle cell anaemia, and genetic disorders.
You should be screened for diabetes, especially if it’s in the family, including a fasting blood sugar test, the blood sugar post prandial (BSPP) test, which measures the level of blood glucose precisely two hours after you start eating a meal, and your HbA1c which is your average blood glucose (sugar) levels for the last two to three months.
Blood typing and Rh factor testing
This test determines a person’s blood type and whether they have the Rh factor. This information is important for family planning as it can impact the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery.
Thyroid function tests
To assess thyroid function, the most effective method is to check the TSH or thyroid-stimulating hormone level in a blood sample. A thyroid function test may be recommended for people with thyroid disease symptoms or a family history of thyroid disorders. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate many functions in the body, including metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can cause fatigue, weight fluctuation, and mood disturbances.
Thyroid disorders are also relatively common, particularly among women. In some cases, an undiagnosed thyroid disorder can lead to difficulties getting pregnant or complications during pregnancy. For this reason, some healthcare providers may recommend a thyroid function test as part of routine premarital medical tests.
Genetic testing
Genetic testing can depend on factors like ethnicity and family history. In addition, this testing may include screening for conditions such as sickle cell anaemia, cystic fibrosis, and Tay-Sachs disease.
Lipid profile and electrocardiogram (ECG)
A lipid profile is a blood test that gives you a low down on cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It’s usually done to check whether you’re at risk of developing heart disease, which a number of things like family history, diet, exercise habits, and smoking can influence. An ECG or electrocardiogram records the electrical activity of your heart and can diagnose heart conditions, such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and heart failure.
Gynaecological examination
Women should get a complete gynaecological examination, including pap smears, pelvic exam, ultrasounds, and Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) test to check for conditions such as cervical cancer and ovarian cancer cysts and sexually transmitted infections. A pap smear can rule out any abnormal cells in the cervix. The AMH test checks a woman’s ability to produce healthy eggs that can be fertilised for successful conception.
Semen analysis
A semen analysis checks the quality and quantity of sperm in a man’s semen. This test may be necessary if a couple is having trouble conceiving.
By identifying any fertility issues early, couples can plan for their future and seek medical assistance to help them conceive. In addition, it can provide peace of mind, help the couple make informed decisions about their future together, and look into options like surrogacy or adoption.
We must be ready to have an open and honest conversation with our partners about our medical history and any concerns we may have. By undergoing the appropriate medical tests, couples can identify potential health risks or fertility issues and take steps to manage or treat them. While premarital medical tests may not be the most romantic part of planning a wedding, they are important to a healthy and happy future together.
A note of caution: This story is for educational purposes with inputs from trained experts. Please consult your healthcare provider to know what suits your needs best.
