Pregnancy Planning? Four Tests You Should Consider Before Starting a Family

If Hollywood movies are anything to go by, getting pregnant is as easy as 1-2-3, right? Not exactly. In fact, there is a lot more to pregnancy than doing the deed with the right person at the right time. And since you’re reading this, we’re going to take it that you’re hoping to start a family of your own in the near future and you’re more than aware that caring for your baby begins long before getting pregnant.

One of the most important steps in pregnancy planning is a pre-pregnancy check-up. These check-ups and health tests will help you get an idea of any potential issues before you begin trying for a family of your own and can help to ensure your pregnancy is a safe and healthy one. As well as a general check-up with a doctor you trust, these are just some of the tests you should consider before starting a family.

Vitamin and mineral

Following a healthy and balanced diet is important during every chapter of your life, including the lead-up to pregnancy. A diet full of the nutrients your body needs will not only help you stay healthy before conceiving, but it can also help support conception and the growth and development of your baby when you do become pregnant. Testing for the most crucial vitamin and minerals is a good way to understand your nutrition and spot any potential areas for improvement.

Check out the LetsGetChecked Micronutrient Test range to identify imbalances and get insights into vitamin and mineral levels that are vital for your overall health and well-being. Make sure your partner tests too; zinc plays a key role in male fertility. The Folate Test available in the UK and Ireland can help monitor levels of folate in your body — one of the most crucial vitamins before and during pregnancy.

Related article: What Vitamins and Minerals do Women Need?

Sexual health

We know what you’re thinking, if you had a sexually transmitted infection, you would know. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case and some of the most common infections in women such as chlamydia and gonorrhea are known to show little to no symptoms — this is why testing is so important. While it is standard practice for your doctor to check for STIs during your first prenatal visit, it is recommended that both partners test before pregnancy to avoid any complications or issues that may impact your baby’s health.

The LetsGetChecked Sexual Health Test range offers quick and discreet comprehensive testing for some of the most common and often symptomless infections. Should you test positive, we can provide treatment options for certain infections in line with clinical guidelines.

Hormone

Our hormones are the chemical messengers in our bodies responsible for a number of important functions like growth, development and, you guessed it, reproduction. In women, there are a few key hormones that play an important role in fertility, and an imbalance can make conception difficult. That’s why checking in on your hormones before you begin trying to conceive is key to gaining insights into your fertility status so you can take the right steps for your pregnancy journey.

The LetsGetChecked Female Hormone Test is ideal for those looking to know more about their fertility status. The test offers a comprehensive picture of your fertility status by looking at key hormones including Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Prolactin, and Estradiol. For your partner, check out the Male Hormone Test range to identify any potential hormone imbalances that may affect fertility.

Related article: Ovulation Signs and Symptoms: How to Know if you are Ovulating

Diabetes

Managing your blood glucose levels both before and during pregnancy is vital to reducing any potential risks or complications. The CDC estimates that 84% of people with prediabetes are unaware of their condition, so it’s important to check in on your status before you plan on starting a family as women with prediabetes are at a higher risk for gestational diabetes.

The LetsGetChecked Diabetes Test measures your HbA1c levels (a measure of your blood sugar over the last 3 months) which can help you identify or manage prediabetes and diabetes. If you already have a diabetes diagnosis, knowing your HbA1c can be a good way to start the conversation about pregnancy planning with your doctor.