Examination Before Planning Pregnancy: Key Steps
The stage of planning a pregnancy is crucial for the birth of a healthy baby. It is important for both partners to undergo necessary exams as the health of both the woman and the man plays a decisive role. In this article, we will discuss the standard pre-conception examination and possible additional tests that doctors may prescribe based on your health condition.
What Women Should Undergo Before Planning Pregnancy
- Consultation with a gynecologist: The first step is to visit a gynecologist for recommendations and to prescribe tests.
- Smear for microflora and cytology: Necessary to detect infections and cellular changes.
- Ultrasound of the pelvic organs: It is preferable to have an ultrasound on days 5-7 of the menstrual cycle.
- Breast and thyroid ultrasound: To rule out diseases of these organs.
- Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs): PCR tests for chlamydia, gonorrhea, trichomoniasis, mycoplasma.
- Blood tests: Tests for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B and C, blood type, Rh factor, and a general blood test.
- Hormonal testing: A test for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), reflecting thyroid function.
- TORCH infections: Tests for immunoglobulins M and G, particularly for rubella. If immunity is absent, vaccination is necessary.
- Fluorography: An obligatory annual screening.
Consultations with Specialists
If you have accompanying health conditions, it is important to consult with other specialists for correction before pregnancy.
What Men Should Undergo Before Planning Pregnancy
- Consultation with a urologist: Men should visit a urologist to assess the state of the reproductive system.
- Ultrasound of the prostate gland: As indicated by the urologist.
- STI tests: Similar to women—PCR tests for sexually transmitted infections.
- Blood tests: For syphilis, HIV, hepatitis, blood type, and Rh factor.
- Fluorography: An obligatory annual screening.
The Importance of Pre-Conception Examination
Undergoing a pre-conception examination is important to detect hidden diseases that may affect the conception process or pregnancy. Your health is the foundation of your future child's health. Consult your doctor, undergo the necessary exams, and you'll be confident that you are doing everything for a successful and safe conception.
Important: Even if you feel fine, a pre-conception exam may reveal conditions that need to be corrected before conception. This will help prevent complications during pregnancy.
Conclusion
Remember, a pre-pregnancy examination is your first step toward a healthy and happy future. Undergo the necessary tests, follow your doctor's recommendations, and you'll be ready to become parents of a healthy baby.