Ensuring you are in the best possible health to support a pregnancy should be a priority for couples trying to conceive. An effective way to assess and optimise your health before embarking on the journey to parenthood is through pre-pregnancy screening.
Learning about the different types of pre-pregnancy tests available in Singapore can help couples take the necessary steps toward a successful and safe pregnancy.
What is a pre-pregnancy screening?
Pre-pregnancy screening is a thorough health check-up for couples planning to conceive. It consists of various pre-pregnancy tests to identify potential health risks that might affect fertility, pregnancy, and the baby’s health.
Many couples seek pre-pregnancy care for peace of mind. Knowing you are in good health can ease anxiety and give you the confidence to carry a healthy pregnancy.
Benefits of pre-pregnancy check-up
Pre-pregnancy check-up offers numerous benefits for couples trying to conceive:
- Identifying health risks: Pre-pregnancy check-up can detect underlying health conditions affecting fertility, pregnancy, or the baby’s health. Early detection of these issues allows for timely management, reducing the risk of complications during pregnancy.
- Genetic counselling: Screening for genetic conditions can identify potential hereditary disorders that might be passed on to the baby. Couples can make informed decisions accordingly and seek appropriate genetic counselling.
- Preventing complications: Addressing chronic diseases or infections before pregnancy can dramatically reduce the risk of complications.
- Optimising health: Ensuring both partners are in optimal health improves the chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby.
Pre-pregnancy screening tests in Singapore
Genetic screening tests
- Carrier screening: Tests for genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis, thalassemia, and spinal muscular atrophy.
- Chromosomal analysis: Evaluates the chromosomes of both partners to detect abnormalities that could affect fertility or pregnancy.
Infectious disease screening
- HIV and Syphilis: Detects sexually transmitted infections that can complicate pregnancy.
- Hepatitis B and C: Identifies carriers of hepatitis viruses to prevent transmission to the baby.
- Rubella Immunity: Ensures the mother is immune to rubella, as infection during pregnancy can cause severe congenital disabilities.
Blood tests
- Full Blood Count (FBC): Checks for anaemia and other blood disorders.
- Blood type and Rh Factor: Determines blood type and Rh factor compatibility between partners.
- Thyroid function tests: Assesses thyroid hormone levels, as thyroid disorders can affect fertility and pregnancy.
Chronic disease screening
- Diabetes screening: Detects pre-existing diabetes or gestational diabetes risk.
- Hypertension screening: Identifies high blood pressure, which can lead to pregnancy complications.
- Cardiovascular health: Evaluate heart health to ensure it can handle the demands of pregnancy.
Reproductive health screening
- Hormonal profiles: Evaluates hormone levels related to ovulation and menstrual cycle regularity.
- Ovarian reserve testing: Measures the quantity and quality of a woman’s eggs.
- Semen analysis: Assesses sperm count, motility, and morphology in men.
Additional tests based on medical history
Depending on individual medical histories, additional tests may be recommended:
- Autoimmune disease screening: Identifies conditions like lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome that could affect pregnancy.
- Lifestyle-related assessments: Evaluate factors like body mass index (BMI), smoking, and alcohol consumption that can impact fertility.
Who should consider pre-pregnancy screening?
Pre-pregnancy screening is beneficial for all couples planning to conceive, but it is especially recommended for those who:
- Have a family history of genetic disorders
- Experience infertility issues
- Have chronic health conditions
- Are over 35 years old
- Have had previous pregnancy complications
Is screening also recommended during pregnancy?
Yes, screening is highly recommended during pregnancy to monitor the health and development of both the mother and the baby. Key tests during check-up include:
- First Trimester Screening: Combines blood tests and nuchal translucency ultrasound to assess chromosomal abnormalities.
- NIPT (non-invasive Prenatal Test): Panorama test helps to screen for Downs syndrome, Edward’s syndrome, Patau’s syndrome, Turner’s syndrome, triploidy and 22q11 micro-deletion (DiGeorge Syndrome) with a very high detection rate
- Ultrasound Examinations: Confirm pregnancy, check for structural anomalies, and monitor growth.
- Glucose Screening: Detects gestational diabetes.
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS) Screening: Checks for GBS bacteria.
- Amniocentesis: Tests for chromosome micro-deletions and single gene disorders with a sample of amniotic fluid.
Get pre-pregnancy check-up in Singapore
Pre-pregnancy testing is vital for couples planning to conceive, offering many benefits to health and preparedness. For couples considering pre-pregnancy screening, seeking guidance from an experienced gynaecologist is a must.
Dr Chang, who is the Head of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Fetal Assessment Unit , Thomson Medical Centre, provides comprehensive pre-pregnancy screening services in Singapore. With a personalised approach, Dr Chang ensures that each couple receives tailored advice and care based on their unique health profiles.