What tests need to be done before pregnancy?
There are several tests that should be taken at least three months before the intended conception to reduce the risk of complications and the development of chronic diseases during pregnancy [1].
They usually include:
general and biochemical blood tests;
general urine analysis;
tests for sexually transmitted diseases, including syphilis and HIV;
tests for TORCH infections: rubella, herpes, hepatitis B and C [2];
coagulograma;
hemostasiograms;
and a blood test for hormones (including the thyroid gland).
What other information is relevant?
Preparing for pregnancy usually includes a visit to a doctor, ENT, and dentist. Do not forget to tell your doctor what kind of childhood diseases you had — for example, measles or whooping cough — and what vaccinations against such diseases you received and when. This will help your doctor determine if you have antibodies to these diseases or if you should have any vaccines updated.
It’s great to bring your partner with you to these appointments. “If your partner has chickenpox, they can pass it on to you if you are not vaccinated,” says Kenneth James, MD, obstetrician-gynecologist at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center [3].
