Florence Uwaeme
Before you go running to the altar to say ‘I do’, ensure you and your partner undergo all of these tests to reduce the possibility of avoidable stress in your marriage.
1.HIV
It is advisable that before any adult indulges in any kind of sexual intimacy with another adult, they should have known their partner’s HIV status. Medical professionals advise that this test should be carried out every three months.
I’m aware that some churches here in Nigeria take intending couples for some test before joining them. What I don’t know is if this particular test is in the list.
2. Fertility test
Except you and your partner are open to other available options for childbearing, this test should be of utmost importance.
3. Genotype
Adults should know their genotype before thinking of dating anyone’s son/daughter. In fact, it should be amongst the questions you
ask each other on your second date at most. Except you won’t mind adoption or use of a surrogate.
4. Blood group
It’s important to ascertain the blood group of a potential spouse to avoid issues relating to blood group or rhesus incompatibility.
The Rhesus factor is either positive or negative. If a Rhesus negative woman marries a Rhesus Positive husband, there is a 50% chance the baby will be rhesus positive. In this case, if precautions are not taken during pregnancy, this could lead haemolytic disease of the newborn.
5. Chronic medical test
When it comes to your health, it is always good to know as this sets you on a path to making healthy life choices.
6. Mental health status
Sound mental health would be good for couples in marriage. Some mental health conditions can be picked out easily – like autism spectrum disorders and cerebral palsy.
Some mental health conditions can be picked out easily – like autism spectrum disorders and cerebral palsy.
