Parenthood is one of life's most cherished milestones and for so many, the journey starts years earlier than a positive pregnancy test. Pre-conception planning isn't merely about monitoring cycles or reducing caffeine intake. It's an important window to evaluate reproductive health, detect possible medical issues, and prepare the body – physically, emotionally, and genetically – for a healthy and safe pregnancy. Most couples do not think of undergoing tests to determine their fertility and plan better. Proactive, personalised intervention is the need of the hour, and the following are some critical tests and examinations couples should undergo before conception.
This article is authored byDr. Aashita Jain, Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility and IVF, Surat
4 Important Health Screenings Before Pregnancy
1. Female Fertility and Gynaecological Evaluation
A complete gynaecological check-up assists in the evaluation of uterine health, hormonal status, and ovary function. Pelvic ultrasonography can identify things like fibroids, endometriosis, or PCOS, each of which may interfere with fertility.
Primary hormonal tests like AMH, FSH, and LH are also essential. These are used to test ovarian reserve and the pattern of ovulation, enabling early intervention when necessary.
2. Male Fertility Testing
Infertility from male factors represents approximately 40–50% of fertility issues and men too must undergo basic semen testing to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Men should also look towards changing habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, inadequate sleeping, and excessive stress, which all compromise sperm quality. Changing these prior to conception can have a beneficial impact on reproductive outcomes.
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3. Disorder Screening
India has a very high prevalence of anaemia and thalassemia. This screening test determines if one or both partners carry genetic mutations that cause inherited conditions like thalassemia, sickle cell anaemia, or cystic fibrosis.
If both are found to be carriers of the same disorder, procedures like IVF with Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) can be advised to achieve a healthy pregnancy.
4. Overall Health and Physical Check-Up
Both partners need to undergo a general health check-up before conception. This involves checking for thyroid function, blood sugar, blood pressure, BMI, and deficiencies in nutrients.
Untreated conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, or hypertension may affect fertility or cause pregnancy complications. Women should also start folic acid supplementation (400 mcg/day) at least 2–3 months before conception to minimise the risk of neural tube defects in the newborn.
Planning for pregnancy should be as intentional as the desire to start a family. A fertility consultation, even before trying, can make all the difference in understanding your body, optimising your chances, and ensuring a smoother journey ahead.
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