Five tests to consider before Marriage

Marriage, also called matrimony or wedlock, is a culturally and often legally recognized union between people called spouses. 

It establishes rights and obligations between them, as well as between them and their children, and between them and their in-laws.

It is considered a cultural universal,[citation needed] but the definition of marriage varies between cultures and religions, and over time. Typically, it is an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually sexual, are acknowledged or sanctioned. In some cultures, marriage is recommended or considered to be compulsory before pursuing any sexual activity. A marriage ceremony is called a wedding.

Before a marriage is conducted, the couples needs to undergo some tests to know if they are compatible for each other.

Below are some of the tests.

HIV Test

Before getting married, it is important for couples to know their HIV/AIDs status.

Given the overwhelming rate at which the virus is spreading, no stone needs to be left unturned. Do not let your partner coax you into trusting them by word of mouth.

Love means little when you are not in good health. Take no chances.

Fertility Test

Couples who plan on having biological children must take a fertility test. This is essential to both parties.  

According to health experts, couples typically do not become aware of reproductive issues until two or more years after being married and conception becomes difficult. It is therefore crucial that the test be performed since it profiles the reproductive hormones in both partners: the man’s semen is analyzed, and the woman’s ovulation is assessed.

Genotype Test 

However, couples who do not plan on having children van skip this test.

Genotype test

Having conflicting genotypes can result in dire consequences not just to your relationship but your unborn children too. Gene testing gives couples prior knowledge of whether they are compatible.  

It will tell whether one or both partners are SS, AS or AA. If two people who are carriers of the sickle cell get married, they could end up having children with sickle cell disorders. As farfetched as it may seem, genotype testing is a massive deciding factor in marriage.

Mental health status

It is very essential to know about mental health problems if any. This can affect the quality of a marriage and can also be passed on to biological offspring.

Although it may seem like a difficult conversation to have, it is essential to know each other’s mental health status in order to have a fulfilling marriage.

Blood Group test

If blood groups are not compatible, this can lead to birth defects in children or complications in pregnancy.

The Rh factor of both the partners needs to be checked for compatibility. Also, knowing your partner’s blood group can prove useful in saving his or her life during an emergency. Couples’ failure to prioritize this test often poses a risk of a condition called hemolytic disease of the newborn which, according to doctors, causes stillbirths and miscarriages.