Patient's question:
I want to have a child in a few months, and I'd like to ask, what tests should be done before pregnancy to ensure the child's health? Thank you, looking forward to your reply online.First follow-up question: Hello, you mentioned earlier (the following explains several important items: ) However, it only mentioned a general blood count test. Are there any other tests needed? For example, trace elements? Do I need to check calcium and zinc? Thank you.
Second follow-up question: Hello, then could you please tell me if a lack of calcium will affect the fetus? Because when I did a free health check at a pharmacy before, it was found that I have severe calcium deficiency, so I'm very worried. If there is an impact,
Doctor's answer:
Hello: The items for pre-pregnancy health checks are similar to our general health checks, and the number of items can vary.Below is an explanation of a few important items:
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
This test can determine the level of hemoglobin and identify anemia, allowing for early treatment. It also provides the platelet count.
Platelets are related to blood clotting, and childbirth involves some bleeding. Therefore, individuals with platelet issues should be treated before becoming pregnant.
This test can also measure the size of red blood cells (MCV). The Han Chinese population has a high prevalence of thalassemia carriers. Thalassemia carriers have smaller red blood cells, with an MCV below 80. This is an inherited genetic disease, and only children with both parents as carriers will be affected.
Therefore, if the expectant mother has an MCV below 80, the expectant father must also have a blood test. If both have an MCV below 80, further tests such as blood electrophoresis and DNA analysis may be required. If only one has an MCV below 80, there is no need to worry.
This is a genetic disease that can be diagnosed prenatally. As a result, the number of newborns with thalassemia has significantly decreased in recent years. Thus, the Complete Blood Count (CBC) can be said to be a cost-effective test with highly important results.