Marriage is the start of life together and may mean having children in the future. A premarital health check is therefore a good opportunity for a couple to get to know each other's health in depth, so you can plan your future together on the basis of accurate information. It is not about finding fault or testing your love, but about caring for each other with understanding.
Why a premarital check matters
A premarital check helps a couple understand the risk of inherited conditions that could be passed to a child, screen for sexually transmitted infections that may have no symptoms, and prepare with regard to vaccines and overall health before pregnancy. Knowing in advance allows you to plan and respond appropriately, reducing risk and worry in the future.
Get tested together, to plan a secure life as a couple
Being tested together as a couple lets the doctor assess the risks as a whole — for example, blood-group compatibility and thalassaemia risk, which need to be read from both partners' results together. So it is best to come in for the check at the same time.
What does a premarital health check include
The recommended premarital tests cover screening for inherited conditions, infectious diseases, and readiness before having children, including:
- Blood group and Rh blood type, with an assessment of the couple's compatibility
- Thalassaemia carrier screening, to assess the risk of passing it to a child
- Sexually transmitted infection tests: HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B
- Rubella immunity testing (for the woman), to prevent risk to the unborn baby
- General health checks, such as blood pressure, blood sugar and a complete blood count
If either partner is found to lack immunity or has not yet had an important vaccine — such as rubella or hepatitis B — the doctor will recommend the missing vaccine to add a layer of safety before pregnancy.
At Doctor Chat Clinic we offer health checks, blood draws, ultrasound and electrocardiograms (EKG) given by a doctor, with private consultation on premarital test results and advice on vaccines.
Who should be tested, and when
Every couple planning to marry or to live together should have the check, especially couples planning to have children.
- Test in advance: we recommend testing at least 3–6 months before the wedding or before planning a pregnancy, so there is time for vaccines and to discuss the results.
- Test together as a couple: because some results need to be read together, such as blood group and thalassaemia carrier status.
- Those with a family history of an inherited condition: should tell the doctor so additional tests can be considered.
Symptoms that need a doctor promptly — don't wait for the annual check
- Abnormal vaginal discharge or secretions, an odour, or itching around the genitals
- A sore, lump or rash on the genitals
- Pain or burning when passing urine, or blood in the urine
- Persistent fever, unexplained weight loss, or marked fatigue with no clear cause
- A past risk of exposure to a sexually transmitted infection that has never been tested