Health screenings to consider before saying ‘I do”
All about the premarital health screenings you should consider before tying the knot
Life is an unpredictable ride, and by now you’ve learnt to expect the unexpected, right? But not with your health! It’s better to be prepared, proactive and more safe than sorry — and this is especially relevant when you have a new spouse. A premarital health test is a series of medical examinations conducted on couples before marriage in order to assess each partner’s general state of health, detect any communicable diseases and prepare for optimal reproductive health, according to the Tirta Medical Centre website. These tests also help to identify blood-type mismatches that could affect your ability to have children. So, before you say ‘I do’ to the love of your life, maybe you should consider saying ‘we should’ to the following health checks.
Another point to consider
Think of the children. No, seriously. Medical checkups benefit both of you but are also vital for the health of any future children you may have together. These screenings identify communicable diseases such as hepatitis and HIV. They also help with early detection of genetic issues such as sickle-cell anemia, thalassemia (a blood disorder) and others that you probably aren’t aware of, as well as cancer markers.
What's the procedure?
Step 1: Go for a consultation with your doctor.
Step 2: Have a complete physical examination done.
Step 3: Conduct laboratory tests, which include the testing of blood or urine samples.
Step 4: Get a hereditary disease screening. The first is cytogenetic (to examine chromosomes), the second is biochemical (to measure protein produced by genes) and the third is molecular (to look for small DNA mutations).
Step 5: Get post-test counselling for emotional support, education and guidance on managing your health so that you can both make informed decisions together in future.
Where to go?
Marie Stopes South Africa, Life Extension Institute of SA, Mayo Clinic of SA, Lancet Labs or any hospitals and clinics near you.
11 Common health screenings
1. A Complete Blood Count
The Cleveland Clinic explains that a complete blood count (CBC) is a test that measures the amounts and sizes of your blood cells, haemoglobin and platelets, and is used to diagnose or monitor various health conditions. It checks for anaemia (low levels of red blood cells), erythrocytosis (high levels of red blood cells), leukocytosis (high white blood cell count), leukopenia (low white blood count), thrombocytosis (high platelet count) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). While these medical terms may sound overwhelming, being proactive is important. The bonus is that you won’t have to wait too long for the results of your test as they are usually ready within a few days; in some cases, within 24 hours.
2. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Tests
According to the Hepatitis B Foundation, this is the most common serious liver infection in the world and two-billion people (that’s one in three) have been infected; about Soo-million people are living with a chronic hepatitis B infection “despite the fact that it is preventable and treatable”. It is transmitted through unprotected sex, the use of unsterile medical or dental equipment, and sharing of razors, nail clippers, toothbrushes, body jewellery and syringes.
A hepatitis C test checks for the presence of hepatitis C antibodies and/or the hepatitis C virus (HCV) that causes liver swelling, which could be life threatening. The good news is that you and your significant other can prevent hepatitis B and C by getting a vaccine and screening.
3. Testing for HIV/AIDS and STDs/STIs
Every couple should know their sexually transmitted disease status, whether they’re about to get married or not. It can be scary testing for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) and other sexually transmitted diseases or infections, but knowing your status — and receiving medical treatment and advice if you are positive — is very important. Not only does it show that you care about the health of your partner, but it helps to prevent you from passing the infection or disease to your beloved or future children.
Since STIs often have no obvious symptoms, you might not even know you’ve been infected. Left untreated, though, they can lead to infertility, birth defects and stillbirth, so make time to schedule an appointment for these tests. The sooner you know, the better.
4. A Cholesterol Test
Having a cholesterol test (or lipid panel) is a smart move. It measures the amount of cholesterol and fats called triglycerides present in your blood, helping you understand your risk for heart disease, says the Mayo Clinic. It’s important to know your cholesterol levels so that you and your future hubby/wifey can make better decisions about your lifestyle and diet, working together to maintain a healthy heart. After all, a healthy heart is key to a long and happy marriage!
5. Pre-Diabetes or Diabetes Type 2 Test
This test helps you know your risk for developing diabetes, or whether you have the condition, allowing you to work together to manage your blood sugar levels and overall health. Diabetes is a serious and life-changing disease — including affecting fertility and sexual health -that should not be ignored, but which can be successfully managed. A test includes three methods: an A1C test (to gain an idea of your average blood glucose levesl over the past two to three months), a fasting plasma glucose test (which requires you to not eat or drink anything except water for eight hours before) and a two-hour post 75g oral glucose challenge (after you’ve drunk a sugary solution).
After all, a healthy heart is key to a long and happy marriage!
6. A Mammogram
There’s no need to be shy! This screening procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes — minutes that could save your life. This test helps detect breast cancer early, using low-dose X-rays of breast tissue in 2D or 3D. Women who are at high risk are those who have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer and inherited genetic mutations, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Detecting breast cancer early on gives you a better chance for successful treatment.
7. Colonoscopy and Pap Smear
Both of these tests concern your nether regions and imagined discomfort and are therefore often something people try to avoid. However, they are important tests. A colonoscopy – for both partners — checks for colon cancer and polyps (small tissue growths), helping to detect any potential issues early on.
A pap smear (for women) helps to identify cellular changes in the cervix that signal the presence of HPV (human papillomavirus) — which is sexually transmitted and a known cause of cervical cancer. With unusual results on a pap smear, a colonoscopy is usually recommended. By getting screened, you can both take proactive steps to protect your health and ensure a long, happy life together.
8. Urinalysis
Ahh… the old ‘pee in a cup test’. This test checks for any abnormalities or signs of infection or substances that are present in the urine, detecting UTIs (urinary tract infections), kidney disease, diabetes and many other health conditions. Urinalysis covers a visual exam, a dipstick test and a microscopic exam.
9. Fertility Check for Men: Semen Analysis
As the name implies, this test checks whether future hubby’s sperm count is normal, low or very low, and also evaluates his general fertility. Note that you will both need to go full abstain mode because “engaging in any sexual activity can introduce foreign substances into the sample, affecting the accuracy of the results,” according to the US National Institutes of Health.
10. Fertility Check for Women: Pelvic Ultrasound and HSG
This one is for those who are hoping to be future mamas. The American Society for Reproductive Medicine explains that an HSG (hysterosalpingogram) is an X-ray procedure used to see whether the fallopian tubes are clear and open, and if the inside of the uterus is normal. It is usually done at the end of a period and before ovulation, and the test takes less than 10 minutes. The ultrasound gives an overall view of internal reproductive organs (including ovaries, uterus and cervix) in order to detect any issues.
11. Mental Health Assessment
Yes, your physical health is very important but so is your emotional wellness. According to a study conducted by the National Library of Medicine on the long-term effects of mental disorders on marital outcomes, individuals who get into relationships and don’t disclose a mental-health diagnosis to their partner often end up divorcing because of that.
Consulting with a psychologist is especially beneficial as it helps to ensure that both individuals are mentally prepared for the life changes and challenges marriage brings. It assesses emotional readiness, stress and anxiety management, and can identify ‘red flags’ (as they say, ‘love is blind’…). It will also help reduce pre-wedding stress, strengthen your relationship, encourage healthy communication, and build trust and intimacy.
NOTE: This advice is a general overview and is not meant to replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. Consult with your doctor or a health professional regarding these tests.
By: Emma Mbuthuma
Text courtesy of Jet Club magazine
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