Before the “wedding day”, many couples may be overwhelmed with preparations and getting ready in many ways. In addition, there is another very important thing that should not be overlooked in marriage, which is “premarital health check-up”. Besides being a health check to prepare for married life, it is also part of preparing for having children.
Check both partners thoroughly and comprehensively
For “premarital health check-up” , besides basic health examinations, there are additional tests such as screening for sexually transmitted infections, and checking for genetic abnormalities that may affect future childbearing. This is to plan for a safe and worry-free married life and parenthood.
Physical examination is prevention and preparation
- Blood tests
- Blood group test to know the blood type for convenience in case of emergency blood transfusion.
- Blood type (Rh Factor) test to see if the prospective mother has a risk of miscarriage or problems with the baby during pregnancy.
- Test for hemoglobin abnormalities in red blood cells which cause thalassemia, a genetic disease. If both parents are carriers, it may affect the child.
- Complete blood count
- Test for immunity and hepatitis B virus which can be transmitted sexually and affect the baby in the womb.
- Test for rubella immunity If no immunity, vaccination and contraception for at least three months are recommended because infection during pregnancy may cause birth defects or miscarriage.
- Test for HIV virus (AIDS) If positive, sexual transmission must be prevented and antiviral treatment is necessary to prevent opportunistic infections. Couples planning to have children should consult a doctor before pregnancy.
- Test for syphilis If positive, it can be completely treated.
- The female partner should have a pelvic exam for cervical cancer and a lower abdominal ultrasound as well, depending on the doctor’s discretion.
Good things gained from premarital health check-ups
We all know that regular health check-ups are good self-care. But if checked before starting married life, besides taking care of yourself, it is also a responsibility for the health of your loved one.
- Prevent disease transmission to your partner
If either partner has a sexually transmitted disease, it is highly recommended to treat it completely before marriage, regardless of how minor or serious the disease is. - Check the readiness of the prospective mother
Examine the female partner’s physical condition to see how ready she is for pregnancy. If not ready, contraception should be studied carefully for the safety of herself and the baby. - Ensure the safety of the baby
Certain diseases can be genetically transmitted to the baby. Therefore, premarital and pre-pregnancy health check-ups are important to reduce the risk of serious diseases affecting the baby and to plan a safer pregnancy.
A smooth start to married life requires not only “a gentle heart for each other” but also “a healthy and safe body for each other.”
Dr. Paweena Butrdeewong
Obstetrician and Gynecologist
Women’s Health Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
