Preconception testing offers answers to patients seeking fertility care

Women who seek fertility treatment may have an edge over women who don’t because they can take full advantage of preconception testing to increase the likelihood of having a successful pregnancy. Our Newport Beach fertility center team prepares patients for pregnancy by ordering a slate of standard tests. These assessments can reduce risks to the mother’s health and that of her future child. By ordering certain tests, our doctors can ensure that our patients are positioned to have the best outcome from fertility treatment.

Exploring the benefits of preconception testing

At the initial visit, your physician will discuss any medical concerns you may have. He will also review your medical and family history as well as perform a physical exam. Using this information, he will be able to recommend different preconception tests.

There are three primary goals of testing before pursuing fertility treatment.

• Ensure that you are as healthy as possible before you try to conceive.
• Treat any infections that could harm you or your growing baby.
• Prevent the transmission of genetic conditions to your future child

Reviewing common health and preconception screenings

As part of preconception testing, your Newport Beach fertility center doctor will order a rubella blood test to determine whether you are vaccinated against German measles. This illness can cause a miscarriage or birth defects if you contract it during pregnancy.

Your doctor will also order tests for sexually transmitted infections. These diseases can contribute to infertility and harm you and your baby.

Depending on your background and family history, your doctor may order a blood or saliva test to determine whether you have or carry any inheritable genetic conditions. Some examples include cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease and Tay Sachs disease. If you test positive for one of these conditions, we can make a treatment plan to help avoid passing it to your future children.

Get a clean bill of health before conceiving

As you begin planning your family, you and your partner want to do everything possible to ensure that you have a healthy baby. Often, preconception testing is one of these steps. To learn more, contact us to schedule a consultation at our Newport Beach fertility center.