Thinking about starting a family is an exciting and emotional step — it’s the beginning of a whole new chapter. As you and your partner prepare for parenthood, it’s a good idea to pause and check in on your health. A pre-pregnancy health check-up can help ensure everything is on track, giving you both the best chance for a healthy conception and pregnancy.
At Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, we recommend a thorough preconception check-up for every couple planning to conceive. It’s a simple but important way to understand your body, address any potential concerns early on, and move forward confidently. Because when it comes to creating a new life, every small step towards preparation makes a big difference.
What is a Preconception Check-up?
A preconception check-up is a detailed health and lifestyle assessment that takes place before you start trying for a baby. It’s your chance to sit down with a doctor and get a full picture of your physical and emotional well-being. This check-up helps identify any factors that could affect your chances of conceiving or impact a future pregnancy.
Typically, it includes:
- A review of your medical, gynaecological, and emotional history
- A check of your vaccination records
- An assessment of your lifestyle, including nutrition, exercise, smoking, alcohol use, and exposure to harmful substances
- Personalised advice and counselling to help you prepare your body and mind for pregnancy
READ: Preconception Check-up
Why is Preconception Care Important?
Like many couples, you may find yourself asking, "Why is preconception care important?" The answer is simple — preconception care can make a big difference. Taking care of your health before pregnancy gives your future baby the best possible start. A simple check-up can uncover issues you might not even be aware of, such as vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or conditions like diabetes or thyroid problems that could affect your ability to conceive or lead to complications later on.
By addressing these early, you’re giving yourself the chance to prepare, make small changes, and feel more confident as you take this big step.
Key Pre-Pregnancy Tests for Couples
Planning for a baby is a shared journey, and taking the right tests early on can help you start that journey on the right foot. Here are some of the essential tests to be done before pregnancy:
-
Physical Examination
A complete body exam to check your height, weight, blood pressure, and major systems such as cardiovascular and respiratory health. This helps identify any underlying medical conditions that may need attention before pregnancy.
-
Gynaecological Examination
This typically includes a pelvic exam, Pap smear, and HPV test to screen for infections, abnormal growths, or cervical changes. It’s an important step in ensuring reproductive health is in good shape.
-
Urine Test
This test is used to detect urinary tract infections or other abnormalities. If glucose is detected in the urine, your doctor may recommend a glucose tolerance test to check for diabetes.
-
Blood Test
A blood test before pregnancy is crucial and may include the following:
- Screening for anaemia, thalassemia, or other haemoglobin-related disorders
- Checking immunity to infections like rubella, chickenpox, and herpes
- Screening for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B & C
- Evaluating thyroid, liver, and kidney function
-
Ultrasound (USG)
An imaging scan to assess the uterus and ovaries, and to check for fibroids, cysts, or other structural concerns that might impact fertility or pregnancy.
-
Genetic Disorder Screening
Depending on personal and family medical history, genetic testing may be advised to screen for inherited conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anaemia, or Tay-Sachs disease. This preconception test is often recommended for both partners.
-
Other Tests
In certain cases, especially if there is a history of heart disease or related conditions, your doctor may recommend additional tests like an ECG or 2D Echo to assess heart function.
-
Male Fertility Testing
Since both partners play an essential role in conception, men may also be advised to undergo pre-pregnancy tests such as:
- Semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology
- Blood tests to check hormone levels, screen for infections, and assess overall health
Where to Get a Pre-Pregnancy Health Check-Up
At Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, we offer personalised pre-pregnancy health check-ups designed to support you at every stage of your parenthood journey. With state-of-the-art diagnostics, experienced specialists, and compassionate care, we help you take the right steps toward a healthy pregnancy.
Whether you're seeking a pre-pregnancy test for females or a comprehensive consultation for both partners, our team is here to provide expert guidance and reassurance, so you can move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
