Pre-Marital Screenings: Why Couples Need Them Before Marriage
Marriage is a significant milestone for everyone. In preparation for the wedding, the couples often find themselves overwhelmed with various tasks they have to accomplish before the big day itself. However, there is one vital undertaking that is often overlooked by a couple – their pre-marital health screenings.
Couples often ignore pre-marital health screenings because most do not understand the importance and necessity of getting one before their marriage. Let us share what this screening entails and why it is essential for every couple to schedule this check-up before their wedding day.
What is a pre-marital screening test?
A pre-marital health screening consists of a series of routine health screenings in addition to other more specific tests, such as detecting hereditary defects, fertility, and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
These tests are essential because most couples may not clearly understand the health complications or genetic disorders they have, especially if there are no symptoms.
Why is it important to undergo a pre-marital screening before marriage?
Getting married means agreeing to a lifelong commitment with a partner. Therefore, it is crucial for both parties to be familiar with each other’s health status. After all, most couples probably have plans to start a family, so it is crucial to detect any early genetic disorders or fertility issues that can impact these plans.
Moreover, not every couple is aware of their partner’s sexual history and whether they have an STD. If one party is hiding such pertinent information from their significant other, it can have severe repercussions for their marriage when the truth is eventually revealed. Worst case scenario, the disease may be transmitted to their partner and even the child should the wife get pregnant.
However, by taking a pre-marital screening test, couples can better understand each other’s health status. With this information, both parties are better prepared for any future implications. It also gives them sufficient time to address and tackle these issues before their marriage.
Common pre-marital screening tests
If you are curious as to what type of tests are included in a pre-marital screening, let us share some of the standard tests that you and your partner will undergo:
1. Blood tests
Blood tests specifically aim to detect any underlying health disorders, as well as any indications that may lead to abnormal medical conditions, such as risky pregnancies in women. Blood group testing (ABO-RH) and complete blood count (CBC) are the two common types of blood tests included in a pre-marital screening package.
2. STD screenings
STD and HIV testing are conducted to help couples better understand their partner’s sexual health. Sometimes, a person may not even be aware that they have contracted an STD, inadvertently transmitting the disease to their partner. With the results of these screenings, both parties can better protect themselves should the result be positive.
3.Genetic and chronic diseases tests
A genetic test informs couples of the risk of their offspring contracting any medical conditions that may be prevalent in either party’s family history. The latter test allows for the early detection of chronic diseases, allowing couples to manage any illnesses early before it reaches the terminal stages. Both tests enable couples to make an informed decision when planning for their future, as well as any children they plan to have.
4. Pelvic exam and fertility tests
The pelvic exam provides women with a clear picture of their cervical and vaginal health, allowing couples to better understand their chances of getting pregnant. Meanwhile, the fertility tests gauge how fertile the couples are by inspecting their reproductive capacity through semen analysis for men and ultrasound for women, to name a few.
Conclusion
Having a clear understanding of a significant other’s health status is crucial, especially if there are plans to take the next step in a relationship and start a family. After all, honesty is one of the essential foundations of a marriage.
At Elyon Clinic, we provide an extensive range of STD testing and family planning services. If you and your partner wish to undergo a pre-marital screening before tying the knot, do not hesitate to contact us at 6802 7208 to book an appointment today!
