List of Essential Tests for Preparing for Pregnancy

Proper pre-conception screening allows for the detection of hidden diseases, adjustment of nutrition, normalization of hormonal balance, and early elimination of potential risks.

Many couples believe that simply starting to take vitamins and leading a healthy lifestyle is enough. However, without comprehensive tests, preparation remains incomplete. It is the results of laboratory tests and mandatory pre-pregnancy analyses that give the doctor an objective understanding of whether the bodies of both the woman and the man are ready for conception.

The Role of Tests in Pregnancy Preparation: Key Benefits

The woman’s body undergoes tremendous stress during pregnancy. If its condition is not checked in advance, even small deviations can lead to complications. Properly conducted tests help:

• evaluate the functioning of vital systems;
• exclude chronic diseases that could complicate the course of pregnancy;
• determine the levels of hormones and nutrients;
• create a personalized treatment or prevention plan;
• prevent the development of complications in the mother and child.

Important: comprehensive diagnostics are needed not only for women but also for men. A spermogram and hormone studies allow for assessment of sperm quality and identification of potential infertility factors.

When to start examination

The optimal time for an examination is 3–6 months before the planned conception. This period is sufficient to undergo all tests, receive treatment if necessary, and adjust one’s lifestyle. 

In some situations, it’s better to start preparation earlier:

• with chronic diseases (heart conditions, thyroid issues, diabetes, autoimmune diseases) — 6–12 months in advance;
  
• after miscarriages or missed pregnancies — after the completion of examination and treatment according to the doctor’s plan;
  
• over the age of 35 — ideally for 6 months or more, to allow time to assess ovarian reserve and any associated diseases.

If a couple visits the clinic in advance, the doctor can not only refer them for standard tests but also draw up a personalized preparation plan and explain essential information for pregnancy preparation. The plan includes basic tests, extended hormone panels, and infection screenings.

This approach helps avoid situations where pregnancy occurs without the body’s full recovery, anemia, or an undetected inflammatory process.

What tests to take: an overview of the main groups of studies

The examination complex is usually divided into several areas. Let’s consider the main categories that doctors recommend for every couple when planning pregnancy.

General clinical

This is the basic stage from which any examination begins. It allows for the assessment of overall health and the identification of possible underlying conditions.

Key tests:

• Complete blood count.
• Blood biochemistry analysis.
• General urine analysis.

Based on these results, the doctor may prescribe additional tests or refer to specialists.

Hormonal

Hormonal balance plays a crucial role in conception and carrying a pregnancy. Even small deviations in tests for women planning pregnancy can lead to difficulties with ovulation or embryo implantation.

Main hormones examined in preparation:

• FSH, LH, estradiol – indicate how stable the ovaries are functioning;
• Prolactin – affects ovulation;
• Progesterone – supports the early stages of pregnancy;
• TSH, T3, T4 – reflect the condition of the thyroid gland, which affects hormonal metabolism;
• Testosterone and DHEA – control the balance of sex hormones in women and men.

The doctor interprets the results and, if necessary, prescribes corrective treatment. Hormonal tests help to understand how prepared the body is for pregnancy and to adjust the cycle in advance if necessary.

Infectious

Infection screening is a mandatory step for both parties. Even asymptomatic diseases can cause inflammation, infertility, or complications during pregnancy.

Key studies included in the basic complex:

• TORCH complex (toxoplasmosis, rubella, cytomegalovirus, herpes) – determines the presence of immunity to dangerous viruses;
• Chlamydia, Mycoplasma, Ureaplasma – often proceed hidden and require treatment before conception;
• HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C – eliminate the infectious risks for the future child and partner.

Testing for infections is especially important for women with a history of miscarriages or inflammatory processes. If the results are positive, gentle treatment is prescribed and re-evaluation occurs in 1–2 months.

For Men

Preparing for pregnancy is a collaborative effort for the couple. For men, key studies are those that assess reproductive function.

Men’s health affects the likelihood of conception and the risk of genetic and epigenetic changes in the fetus. It is recommended for men to:

1. Sperm analysis
   Assesses:
   
   • sperm concentration;
     
   • motility;
     
   • morphology (shape);
     
   • presence of inflammatory changes.
     
2. MAR-test and additional sperm analysis indicators — as indicated (immunological factor, sperm DNA fragmentation, etc.).
   
3. Hormonal profile (as indicated):
   
   • testosterone;
     
   • FSH, LH;
     
   • prolactin;
     
   • TSH, free T₄.
     
4. Infectious screening — the same list of infections as that of the woman.

If there are deviations, the following are possible:

• treatment of infections;
  
• lifestyle adjustments (weight, smoking, alcohol, testicular overheating);
  
• medication therapy as indicated.

Why it is important to undergo examination in a clinic

Home tests or rapid analyses cannot replace laboratory diagnostics. They do not indicate diseases, genetic deviations, or inflammatory processes. Only a clinic provides the opportunity to conduct a complete examination with data interpretation by a specialist.

The doctor will select the necessary tests, explain the results, prescribe treatment if necessary, and create an individual preparation plan. This is especially relevant for couples who have already experienced difficulties with conception or miscarriages.

The clinical approach not only allows for ‘getting tests done’ but for obtaining a comprehensive picture of health, which significantly increases the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.

When Additional Tests Are Needed: Indications and Types of Studies

Basic tests provide a general picture of health, but sometimes this isn’t enough. Based on the initial test results, a doctor may order additional tests to clarify the causes of issues or to assess the body’s condition more thoroughly.

• Coagulogram (blood clotting test). It helps determine the risk of thrombosis and placental circulation disorders during pregnancy.
• Ferritin test for detecting latent anemia.
• Folic acid and vitamin D. A deficiency in these substances often interferes with embryo implantation.
• Immunogram. Allows assessment of the immune system’s function and identification of autoimmune reactions that may hinder conception.
• Antibodies to hCG and phospholipids. Prescribed in cases of habitual miscarriage to determine immunological risks.
• Glucose test. Enables the detection of latent insulin resistance, which may complicate pregnancy progression.

These tests are not prescribed for everyone but only as indicated. However, they help in timely identification of hidden issues and allow for initiation of treatment before pregnancy, significantly reducing the likelihood of complications.

Genetic Testing and Compatibility

Modern medicine is increasingly focusing on genetic factors. Sometimes, the reasons for unsuccessful conception attempts or miscarriages are not due to hormonal disruptions, but hereditary characteristics.

Genetic tests in preparation for pregnancy allow determination of:

• compatibility of the couple at the level of chromosomes and antigens;
• presence of mutations affecting blood clotting (e.g., folate cycle gene polymorphism);
• probability of passing hereditary diseases to the child;
• individual body’s response to vitamins and medications.

The doctor may recommend genetic tests for cystic fibrosis and spinal muscular atrophy—serious diseases that deteriorate the child’s quality of life.

If genetic abnormalities are suspected or if there have been cases of congenital diseases in the family, the doctor may refer the couple to a specialized clinic for a genetic consultation.

Note: such studies are not a cause for concern but an opportunity to assess risks in advance and plan treatment or prevention. Timely genetic diagnosis helps avoid errors and prepare for the birth of a healthy child.

Examination of Chronic Diseases

Minimal list (can be expanded based on indications):

• Cardiovascular system:
  
  • ECG;
    
  • if there are complaints — EchoCG, cardiologist consultation.
    
• Thyroid gland:
  
  • TSH, free T₄;
    
  • Thyroid ultrasound in case of hormonal disturbances or palpable changes.
    
• Gastrointestinal tract:
  
  • liver biochemistry;
    
  • if there are complaints — abdominal ultrasound, gastroscopy, consultation with a gastroenterologist.
    
• Genitourinary system:
  
  • general urine test;
    
  • for frequent cystitis — urine culture, kidney ultrasound.
    
• Musculoskeletal system and metabolism:
  
  • for excess weight — glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile.
    

The goal is to achieve compensation of chronic diseases even before pregnancy occurs.

Tests for blood coagulation and autoimmune disorders

One of the key stages of examination is the assessment of the hemostasis system. Blood coagulation disorders can cause a missed pregnancy or complications during childbirth.

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Mandatory tests include:

• Coagulogram. Determines the levels of fibrinogen, platelets, and coagulation indicators.
• D-dimer and lupus anticoagulant. Used to assess the risk of thrombosis.
• Antibodies to cardiolipin and phospholipids. Prescribed in cases of suspected autoimmune processes.

The results are evaluated by a hematologist. If necessary, preventive treatment is selected to reduce the risk of thrombosis during pregnancy.

Blood Compatibility Tests for Partners

Another important aspect is the Rh factor and blood group of the spouses. Rh incompatibility can cause an immune conflict, in which the woman’s body perceives fetal cells as foreign.

To prevent such situations, the following are carried out:

• Determination of the blood group and Rh factor of both partners;
• Antibody testing in a woman with a negative Rh factor;
• If necessary, consultation with a hematologist and preventive administration of anti-Rh immunoglobulin.

These measures help avoid hemolytic disease of the newborn and ensure a safe pregnancy.

Special Cases

1. Age over 35
   Additional recommendations may include:
   
   • assessment of ovarian reserve (AMH, ovarian ultrasound);
     
   • more thorough assessment of cardiovascular risks;
     
   • genetic counseling.
     
2. After miscarriages or pregnancies that did not carry to term
   An expanded scope may be possible:
   
   • hemostasis examination (coagulogram, thrombophilia);
     
   • immunological and genetic studies;
     
   • detailed examination of the uterus (ultrasound, hysteroscopy as indicated).
     
3. Hereditary diseases in the family
   
   • consultation with a geneticist;
     
   • targeted genetic tests for the couple;
     
   • discussion of planning options (including, if necessary, IVF with preimplantation genetic diagnosis).

Practical tips before testing

To ensure the research results are as accurate as possible, it is worth following a few simple doctor’s tips when preparing for pregnancy:

1. Most blood tests are taken in the morning on an empty stomach, and it is better not to eat 8-12 hours prior.
2. A day before the examination, exclude coffee, alcohol, and fatty foods.
3. Do not take vitamins and medications without a doctor’s prescription – they may distort the data.
4. Avoid stress and physical exertion a day before hormonal tests.
5. If there has been recent antibiotic treatment or vaccination, inform the specialist – some tests should be postponed.
6. Hormonal tests have specific rules. It is important to follow the cycle days indicated by the doctor (2nd–5th day for FSH/LH/estradiol, 21st–23rd day for progesterone in a 28-day cycle); avoid intense physical exertion and severe stress the day before.

General blood/urine tests are usually ready within a day, while hormones, vitamins, immunology, and genetics take from several days to several weeks.

Important: It is better to interpret test results in the same clinic – this way the doctor sees the dynamics and can correctly evaluate changes. Keep electronic forms (personal account of the lab, PDF) and paper forms. Bring the doctor a complete set – test results, discharge summaries, specialists’ evaluations.

Joint preparation of the couple

Planning a pregnancy is not just a woman’s task. The health condition of men is equally important: sperm quality, hormone levels, absence of infections.

Therefore, it is recommended that both partners undergo a comprehensive examination at the same clinic. This simplifies control and allows the doctor to create a unified plan for preparation for conception.

This joint work helps not only avoid diseases but also strengthens the emotional bond – a conscious attitude towards future parenthood reduces stress and increases confidence.

Nutrition and Lifestyle When Preparing for Pregnancy

The habits of a couple significantly affect the outcome of the pregnancy.

Recommended:

• start taking folic acid at a dose of at least 400 mcg per day at least 3 months before conception (the dose is specified by the doctor);
  
• normalize weight (BMI close to normal reduces the risks of complications);
  
• include in the diet:
  
  • vegetables, fruits, whole grains;
    
  • fish 1–2 times a week;
    
  • an adequate amount of protein (meat, fish, legumes, dairy products if tolerated);
    
• limit:
  
  • trans fats, fast food, excess sugar;
    
  • sweet soda drinks.
    

Critical importance:

• quit smoking (including e-cigarettes);
  
• minimize or exclude alcohol;
  
• discuss with your doctor the intake of any constant medications (some drugs need replacement before pregnancy).
  

Regular moderate physical activity (walking, swimming, gymnastics) improves metabolism, reduces stress, and helps prepare the body for physical demands.

Vaccination before pregnancy

Before conception, it’s important to assess immunity to a number of infections, especially if there is no data on vaccinations.

Most often discussed:

• Rubella, Measles, Mumps (MMR)
  
  • If immunity is lacking, vaccination with a live vaccine.
    
  • Pregnancy planning — no earlier than 3 months after vaccination.
    
• Chickenpox
  
  • If immunity is lacking — vaccination with a live vaccine.
    
  • An interval of about 3 months before conception is also required.
    
• Flu
  
  • Inactivated vaccine may be recommended during the epidemic season.
    
  • Allowed both before pregnancy and according to indications during.
    
• Hepatitis B, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, COVID-19 — discussed individually.
  

Contraindications at the planning stage:

• presence of an acute illness with fever;
  
• severe allergic reactions to previous doses;
  
• pregnancy has already occurred (live vaccines are not administered after pregnancy begins).
  

A doctor selects the vaccinations and timing during a face-to-face consultation, taking into account the vaccination schedule and your condition.

The role of the doctor in preparation for pregnancy

Guided pre-conception care is not just a set of tests, but a whole strategy centered around the physician. They coordinate all stages: from choosing the necessary examinations to monitoring treatments and prescribing preventive measures.

The physician explains which parameters are truly important, when to retake blood tests, which vitamins to start taking, and which ones to postpone. They also help assess the impact of chronic diseases on the course of future pregnancy and develop an individual correction plan. Only a physician can interpret test results. 

It is especially important to be observed by one specialist or in one clinic – this preserves the integrity of medical data, and the doctor can see the dynamics of changes. This enhances diagnostic accuracy and the effectiveness of prevention.

How often should examinations be conducted

If a couple plans pregnancy in advance, basic tests are sufficient once a year. However, in the presence of chronic diseases, hormonal disorders, or past infections, monitoring is conducted more frequently.

Recommended scheme:

• 6 months before the planned conception – a complete laboratory examination;
• 2–3 months later – follow-up tests if deviations were previously detected;
• after a course of treatment – repeat tests to confirm the result;
• right before conception – final health and hormone level check.

This approach helps not only prepare the body but also reduces the risk of complications in the early weeks of pregnancy when the baby’s organs and systems are forming.

Why even minor symptoms should not be ignored

Many women delay visiting a doctor if they feel well. However, some diseases progress silently and only manifest during pregnancy, when treatment options are already limited.

Even minor signs – an unstable cycle, weakness, increased fatigue, frequent colds – can indicate issues. It is important not to ignore them and discuss with a doctor in advance.

Regular visits to specialists allow for timely adjustments in nutrition, hormone and vitamin levels, as well as to monitor the overall condition of the body.

Choice of Clinic and Quality of Diagnostics

When choosing a clinic, pay attention to three key criteria:

1. Comprehensive approach. A good clinic offers a full cycle – from basic tests to highly specialized examinations.
2. Doctors’ experience. A reproductive specialist or therapist with experience in pregnancy planning will be able to choose the optimal examination route.
3. The reliability of the laboratory. The higher the precision of the equipment, the more accurate the results.

It’s better to choose a medical center where all blood tests are performed within one system – this eliminates errors and simplifies control.

If you have doubts, you can have a preliminary consultation with a reproductive specialist or gynecologist who will advise you on which tests are truly necessary for you.

Benefits of comprehensive diagnostics

Early diagnostics allow for:

• avoiding complications during conception and pregnancy;
• reducing the risk of transmissible infections;
• starting treatment in a timely manner when necessary;
• preparing the bodies of both women and men for the load;
• ensuring the development of a healthy child from the first days.

Regular check-ups, attentive monitoring of well-being, and consultation with a doctor are the reliable foundation for a successful pregnancy.

Conclusion

Comprehensive tests before pregnancy are the first step towards the birth of a healthy child. It’s important not to delay examinations, to undergo them under a doctor’s supervision, and to keep all data in one place. Modern services like MomsLab make this process simple, transparent, and effective: they help to timely undergo tests, plan specialist visits, and confidently move towards the main goal – the birth of a healthy baby.