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Preconception testing reduces the risk of birth defects and other such complications. They identify and address fertility issues to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Basic Common Preconception Tests For Both Parents
- Blood tests: A blood test called preconception carrier screening is performed on both parents before pregnancy to identify which genetic disorders can be passed on to the child. The purpose of this test is to understand if one or both parents are carriers, as carriers can have the gene for a disorder while showing mild to no symptoms. Conditions tested for include thalassemia, sickle cell disease and cystic fibrosis.
- Blood pressure and BMI: Both partners will have their blood pressure and BMI (Body Mass Index) checked to make sure they are within the healthy ranges for a safe and successful pregnancy
Tests Specific To Women
1. Blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies
Blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies are performed on the woman to check if she has stable nutrition levels to conceive and sustain a pregnancy. These blood tests check for nutrients like vitamin D, iron and other vital nutrients.2. Thyroid function test
The thyroid function test measures the levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in the blood. These levels are different from people who are not pregnant and change throughout pregnancy. Thyroid conditions can affect both mother and foetus during pregnancy and lead to serious issues if left untreated. - Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is caused by an underactive thyroid. It can lead to complications with pregnancy, and miscarriages and increase the risk of a cesarean birth. Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, weight gain and changes in the menstrual cycle.
- Hyperthyroidism: Hyperthyroidism is caused by an overactive thyroid and leads to preterm birth, low birth weight and hypertension induced by pregnancy. Other complications like high blood pressure, premature delivery and poor growth of the baby can also be triggered by hyperthyroidism.
- Thyroid storm: This is a severe, life-threatening form of hyperthyroidism that causes high fever, dehydration, diarrhoea, rapid and irregular heartbeat and even death.
3. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A CBC measures the levels of red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets in the blood. It is a routine blood test done to monitor the mother’s health and check for conditions like anaemia and thalassemia. - Anaemia: Anaemia is a condition faced by many pregnant women due to an increase in blood volume during pregnancy. This causes a decrease in red blood cells per volume, leading to anaemia. The condition is worsened if someone has a blood disorder like thalassemia.
- Infections: An abnormal amount of WBCs (White Blood Cells) can indicate an infection.
- Clotting: A CBC also assesses a woman’s platelet count to ensure that her blood can clot properly, which is very important to prevent excessive bleeding during childbirth.
4. Rubella Immunity Test
The rubella immunity test is used to determine if the pregnant woman is immune to rubella. A positive result indicates immunity and means that the woman will not pass it on to her baby. Rubella infections during pregnancy can cause serious complications like congenital rubella syndrome, miscarriage and stillbirth. 5. Hormonal tests
Hormonal tests are used to determine if hormone levels are normal and stable enough to support a pregnancy. Some hormone tests done during pregnancy include: - LH test (luteinising hormone): An LH test can help predict ovulation and can help people who are trying to conceive. A surge in LH in the urine indicates when ovulation will occur, which is when pregnancy is most likely to happen.
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): FSH levels trigger the ovaries to release an egg each month. A blood test is done to check FSH levels.
- Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH): AMH levels determine how well the ovaries can function. AMH levels are tested with a blood test and decline with age.
- Prolactin test: A prolactin test is done to measure prolactin levels. Abnormal levels of prolactin can indicate fertility problems in women who are not pregnant. High levels of prolactin can cause heavy, irregular periods with severe menstrual cramps.
6. HIV and other STI testing
All women who are planning to get pregnant should get tested for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus))and other STIs (sexually transmitted infections). Some STIs can cause fertility and health issues for both mother and baby. They can be passed on to the baby through the umbilical cord or even through breastfeeding. Women trying to get pregnant are screened for HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis. 7. Ovulation Tests
A doctor can do an ovulation test in several ways, including a blood test, ultrasound or checking electrolyte levels in the saliva. If ovulation is not occurring regularly, the doctor might prescribe medication to stimulate egg production. 8. Pap Smear
A pap smear checks for abnormal cells in the cervix, which could indicate cancer. If you have not had a pap smear in years, it is a good idea to get one before you conceive. If abnormal cells are found, you can get treatment for it before getting pregnant.9. Pelvic exam
Pelvic exams are done as a routine part of a preconception checkup. These evaluations check if you are physically ready to get pregnant. During the pelvic exam, a doctor will check the health of your pelvic organs. This is usually done with an ultrasound scan. 10. Blood Sugar levels
To determine if the patient is prediabetic, diabetic, or completely diabetes-free, you need to check HbA1c and fasting insulin levels, along with fasting blood sugar and post-lunch blood sugar levels. Knowing the diabetes status is crucial because if the patient is already diabetic, the management during pregnancy changes significantly. Additionally, lifestyle modifications may be required. If she is prediabetic, diabetes should be considered a major risk factor before conception, and it is essential to detect her diabetes status beforehand.Tests Specific To Men
1. Semen Analysis
A semen analysis test is a laboratory test that evaluates male fertility. Analysing semen can help determine if an issue with sperm production or quality is causing infertility. Some aspects measured in semen and sperm include: - Volume: The amount of semen in the sample is measured
- Sperm count: The number of sperm in the sample
- Sperm concentration: This measures how close together sperm are in the semen
- Sperm movement: The number of sperm that are moving forward
- Sperm shape: The number of sperm with a normal shape
- Sperm pH: Acidity levels of sperm
- White blood cells: The number of white blood cells present in semen
2. Testosterone Level
A testosterone level test is done to assess if low testosterone levels are causing infertility. Low levels of testosterone can lead to erectile dysfunction and low sex drive. For this test, a doctor or any other healthcare professional draws blood from a vein in your arm. The test is usually done between 7-10 AM when testosterone levels are at their highest. The doctor may ask you to fast before the test. The test takes less than five minutes, and results should be available within 2-3 days. 3. Testicular Examination
A testicular examination is a part of male fertility evaluation to determine if there are any fertility issues. A doctor or urologist does this test that includes:- Ultrasound: An ultrasound uses high-frequency waves to create images of the testicles and surrounding structures. This helps in the detection of issues like cysts, tumours, fluid pooling and infections.
- Physical Exam: A physical exam checks the size, shape and appearance of the testicles. It also checks for issues like undescended or retractile testicles.
Genetic Testing For Both Partners
1. Carrier Screening
Carrier screening is a type of genetic test that can be done before or during pregnancy to test if either of the parents carries the genes for a genetic disorder. It is used to determine the risk of passing on a genetic disorder to an offspring. It tests for inherited conditions such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, muscular atrophy and more. For the test, a blood or tissue sample is taken from the inside of the cheek. A positive result does not necessarily mean that your child or you have a genetic condition. In case of a positive result, the doctor may recommend further testing.2. Chromosomal Tests
Chromosomal tests identify any chromosomal disorders that can be passed on to the child. Assessments Of Lifestyle And Health History
- Medical history review: Before you conceive, your doctor will review you and your family’s medical history. This includes a history of all the illnesses you’ve had, including chronic illnesses and surgeries you may have had in the past.
- Weight and nutritional assessment: For this, the doctor checks for any nutritional deficiencies that could impact fertility. Along with this, your weight is analysed and monitored, as factors like being underweight or overweight can cause fertility issues.
- Substance use assessment: Both parents’ alcohol, drug and tobacco usage are assessed and lifestyle changes are suggested.
- Vaccination checks: The doctor will ensure that both parents are up to date on all vaccines and schedule vaccinations for those who are not.
Importance Of Early Detection
Preconception testing makes sure that couples can understand their fertility levels early on to ensure optimal chances of conception. This allows couples to plan better. It can also help:- Prevent pregnancy complications: Preconception testing can help you address and manage pregnancy complications such as hypertension, diabetes, or STIs early on. It is very important to manage and treat these issues as they can lead to severe complications in pregnancy. STIs can be passed on from the mother to the child.
- Improve chances of conception: Preconception testing allows you to understand your fertility levels and address any issues you may have early on to make sure your chances of conception are higher.
- Personalised pregnancy care and planning: Understanding every complication or issue you could face prepares you for better planning. The doctor can also provide you with conception plans tailored to suit your needs, based on your preconception testing results. Conception plans can look different for people with complications like PCOS(Polycystic ovary syndrome), thalassemia and thyroid issues. Being fully aware of these complications can help your doctors come up with a plan that suits your needs while monitoring you closely.
Consulting A Fertility Specialist
Do not hesitate to consult a fertility specialist if any of your test results are not normal. You should make sure you see a specialist if you have been trying to conceive unsuccessfully for over a year.Preconception testing is important for anyone who is trying to conceive. The earlier you get tested, the sooner you will understand your needs. To have a smoother process and avoid pregnancy complications, preconception tests are a must.
FAQs on Top Preconception Tests You Should Consider Before Getting Pregnant
- What are preconception tests?
Preconception tests are tests done before pregnancy to make sure that the woman is healthy enough to get pregnant. They also improve a couple’s chances of getting pregnant. - Who should go for preconception testing?
Anyone who is planning to get pregnant should get preconception tests done to understand the risks and complications early on. - When can I go for preconception tests?
You can undergo preconception tests as soon as you decide to get pregnant.
