Pre-pregnancy exams are for the reproductive, clinical, and genetic partners.
Then you decide to have a child you should attend a consultation with your doctor, who will do a series of pre-pregnancy tests and assessments to determine the ideal time to conceive. The general physical and gynecological evaluation should be complete and include aspects such as age of first menstruation, characteristics of menstrual cycles, if there are menstrual cramps, its onset and severity, with what is planned, if it is done, age of onset of the Sexual relations, number of partners and data that may suggest infectious alterations to be treated.
A series of pre-pregnancy laboratory tests should be done to complement your knowledge of your health status and previous vaccinations; In cases where there is difficulty in achieving pregnancy, the study may include evaluation of ovulation with hormonal examinations, and should also include general male assessment and semen characteristics.
Exams before pregnancy: genetic counseling
In this consultation, the family history of the couple is evaluated to know the present illnesses as cancer, diabetes, mental retardation or abortions, among others, and the existence of genetic abnormalities like Down syndrome, cleft palate and cleft lip. In cases that the physician considers, this study should be extended, with genetic counseling that may include a more extensive genealogical and background study, along with a blood karyotype (study of the chromosomes to determine if they are complete and normal in shape And number) and molecular tests (DNA analysis for specific genetic diseases).
This counseling also helps determine the genetic risks of the blood group and Rh, as they are inherited; Rh negative women with Rh positive partners have a 50 to 100 percent chance of engendering an Rh positive baby, which could be a risk if the mother is not immunized with a vaccine, since Rh incompatibility occurs when the pregnant woman Is negative and your baby is positive.
Health assessment
Doctors recommend testing before the minimum pregnancy three months before. You should have a check to check your medical history, which includes medical and obstetrical history, lifestyle and a detailed physical examination.
For the record of the current medical condition of the mother it is necessary to know if there are chronic diseases, infections or allergies, previous hospitalizations or genetic abnormalities that can affect the pregnancy. In addition, it is reviewed if there is consumption of medicines, vitamins or special supplements.
The obstetric history is a detailed study on whether it is the first pregnancy, whether there have been abortions, premature births, ectopic pregnancies, births or cesareans. If there are other births, any postpartum complications, both for the mother and the baby, should be reviewed.
The physical assessment takes into account height, weight and blood pressure. Lifestyle refers to eating habits, alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking or drugs, high risk factors during pregnancy.
Medical examinations before pregnancy
Suggested baseline studies or pre-pregnancy exams are blood counts, blood counts, blood glucose, urine, serology for syphilis, rubella, toxoplasma, hepatitis B and HIV.
Medical criteria can be cytology, vaginal smear, transvaginal ultrasound, nutritional assessment and dentistry.
Another determining factor is that you have complete the vaccination scheme, against hepatitis A and B, tetanus, rubella and other vaccines of childhood; Failing that, they must be applied at least three months before the pregnancy. The vaccine against AH1N1 virus should also be considered.
