Pre-Marriage Health Check in London: What Every Couple Should Know – Book Now
Why pre-marital screening matters in the UK and what tests you might consider before saying “I do.
Planning a wedding is exciting but before the celebrations begin, taking a moment for a health check can safeguard your future together. A pre-marriage health check helps identify infections, genetic risks, vitamin or metabolic issues, and pre-existing conditions that could affect fertility, pregnancy, long-term health, or your partner’s wellbeing. In London — a global city with diverse backgrounds — a comprehensive screening ensures couples start married life with clarity and confidence. This blog explains which tests are recommended, what couples commonly ask, and when to get tested.
What is pre-marital screening?
- Definition: a set of medical tests and health checks done before marriage. Historically common in many countries to screen for infections (e.g. syphilis) and blood disorders.
- Not mandatory everywhere — but considered a responsible, proactive step, especially if planning children or if either partner has family history of genetic conditions.
Why consider pre-marriage screening in the UK?
- Hidden infections or STIs can remain asymptomatic.
- Genetic carriers (e.g. thalassaemia, sickle cell, G6PD deficiency) may not know their status.
- General health optimisation (vitamins, metabolic, organ function) before a major life change.
- Fertility planning, pregnancy safety, future family health.
Common Tests Included in Pre-Marriage Screens
Here is a typical screening list:
- Full Blood Count (FBC) – checks for anaemia, infection, general blood health.
- Blood group & Rh typing – relevant for future pregnancy, blood transfusion compatibility.
- Genetic carrier screening (e.g. thalassaemia, sickle cell, G6PD) – especially for couples with relevant ethnic background or family history.
- Infectious disease / STI panel – HIV, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis; possibly others depending on background.
- Immunity / immunity checks – e.g. Rubella IgG, to assess immunity status before pregnancy.
- Metabolic health – liver function, kidney function, blood sugar (HbA1c), general organ health. Important if lifestyle, diet, alcohol use may impact long-term health.
- Nutritional status – vitamin D, B12 (if offered), iron or ferritin if indicated, especially if planning children. Many deficiencies go unnoticed but affect energy, immunity, fertility.
- Urinalysis – baseline kidney/urinary tract check (especially if there are urinary symptoms), general metabolic health.
- Optional fertility tests (for both men and women). For couples planning children sooner rather than later, a fertility check can give peace of mind and early intervention if needed. This may include hormone panels, semen analysis, etc.
Pre-Marriage Screening Test Panels – What Each Test Checks (MDC Guide)
| Test Panel | What It Checks | Why It Matters Before Marriage |
| Full Blood Count (FBC) | Anaemia, infection, immune activity | Ensures both partners have a healthy baseline before planning a pregnancy |
| Blood Group & Rh Typing | Determines ABO group and Rh factor | Important for future pregnancy (Rh incompatibility risks) |
| Genetic Blood Disorder Screen (Thalassaemia, Sickle Cell, G6PD) | Identifies whether either partner is a carrier | Helps couples understand risks of passing conditions to children |
| Infectious Disease Panel (HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, Syphilis) | Screens for important infections that may be silent | Protects both partners and future pregnancy; early treatment prevents complications |
| Rubella Immunity (IgG) | Checks immunity to rubella virus | Crucial for pregnancy planning — reduces congenital infection risk |
| Liver Function | Checks inflammation, alcohol-related changes, or metabolic stress | Ensures liver health before pregnancy, long-term medication or lifestyle planning |
| Kidney Function | Assesses kidney filtration and hydration status | Important before pregnancy and long-term health planning |
| HbA1c (Blood Sugar) | Detects diabetes or pre-diabetes | Helps prevent future pregnancy complications and long-term metabolic risks |
| Vitamin D | Supports immunity, mood and fertility | Very common deficiency in the UK; affects energy and reproductive health |
| Vitamin B12 | Nervous system, energy and red blood cell production | Important for fertility, fatigue and metabolic stability |
| Ferritin (Iron Stores) | Checks iron reserve levels | Low iron affects fertility, pregnancy, energy and immunity |
| Urinalysis | Detects kidney issues, infection or metabolic abnormalities | Key for identifying silent urinary infections or underlying kidney strain |
| Semen Analysis (Optional Add-On) | Sperm count, motility and morphology | Useful for couples planning children soon |
| Female Hormonal Profile (Optional Add-On) | Ovarian hormones, cycle pattern, fertility markers | Helpful for early fertility planning and understanding menstrual irregularities |
| STD Sexual Health Panel (Optional Add-On) | Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, mycoplasma, ureaplasma, trichomonas | Ensures clear results for both partners before intimacy or pregnancy |
Who should consider pre-marital screening?
- Couples planning to start a family soon.
- People from families with genetic disorders — regardless of symptoms.
- Individuals with past or unknown sexual health history.
- People with metabolic risk (e.g. diabetes, liver conditions, obesity, heavy alcohol use).
- Anyone who wants to enter marriage with clarity, transparency and health awareness.
When to do your pre-wedding screening?
- Preferably 1–3 months before the wedding date.
- Allows time for results, follow-up, vaccinations (if immunity lacking), or further medical advice.
- Gives both partners time to discuss any findings and plan accordingly.
What pre-marital screening does NOT guarantee
- It does not test for all possible genetic or health conditions. As some providers note, it’s not possible nor practical to screen for every condition. STI Test London
- Normal results do not guarantee lifelong prevention – lifestyle, future exposures, and other risks still matter.
- Screening does not replace regular health care or specialist fertility advice if needed.
Take-home message
A pre-marriage health check is not just a formality – it’s a responsible, forward-thinking step that can give both partners confidence, transparency, and a healthy baseline before marriage and family planning. Whether you already feel healthy or want to double-check unseen risks, a comprehensive screening helps you begin married life on solid ground.
Pre-Marriage Health Check FAQs
Do I need a pre-marriage health test in the UK?
Premarital screening is not legally required in the UK. However, many couples choose to do it voluntarily because it offers reassurance before marriage. It helps identify infections, inherited conditions, vitamin deficiencies, metabolic problems, or fertility-related issues that might affect future plans. It is especially helpful for couples planning a pregnancy, couples from different backgrounds, or anyone with a family history of genetic conditions. The test is completely optional but considered a responsible step when starting a life together.
What does a pre-marriage blood test include?
A standard pre-marriage panel usually includes a Full Blood Count, blood group and Rh typing, genetic carrier screening (such as thalassaemia, sickle cell or G6PD), infectious disease screening (HIV, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, and syphilis), and sometimes an immunity check for rubella. Many couples also choose to check their liver and kidney function, HbA1c (blood sugar), vitamin D, vitamin B12, and iron levels because these affect fertility, energy and long-term health. Depending on the clinic, you can also add fertility profiles or semen analysis.
How much does a pre-marriage medical test cost?
The cost varies depending on how many tests are included and whether you choose a basic or comprehensive package. In the UK, private premarital screening generally ranges from £200 to £600. Some clinics offer separate pricing for additional services such as extended genetic panels, full STI screening or fertility tests. At a private medical centre, you can usually customise the package depending on your background, family history and future plans. Prices also depend on the speed of results and whether you require a formal certificate for embassy or visa purposes.
How long until results come back?
Most standard blood tests are available within 24–48 hours, although some genetic tests may take longer. Infectious disease results are usually returned within one working day in private settings. If you require a health certificate for travel or embassy requirements, the clinic may take a little extra time to prepare official documentation. For general premarital screening, couples typically receive all results within two to three days.
Is the test private and confidential?
Yes. Pre-marriage testing in the UK is fully private and confidential. Your results are shared only with you (and your partner if you choose). Clinics follow strict data-protection and medical confidentiality rules, so no information is disclosed to third parties, including family members, employers or government bodies. For couples who value discretion, private screening offers complete privacy and peace of mind.
Do I need my partner to book separately?
Most clinics allow couples to book together or separately depending on preference. You do not need to attend at the same time, and you can choose different panels if needed. Some couples prefer a joint appointment, while others come on different days. Results are still individual and remain confidential unless you choose to share them. Booking separately is common, especially for international couples or those with different schedules.
Can results help with embassy or visa requirements?
Yes. Many countries — particularly in the Middle East, Africa and parts of Asia — request premarital screening before recognising foreign marriages or granting spouse visas. UK clinics can provide a stamped, signed medical report with the necessary test results. If you know which embassy you need to submit documents to, it is best to inform the clinic in advance so they can ensure the correct tests and certificate format are included. Private centres often handle these requests regularly.
Quick Links
- HbA1c Test
- Full Lipid Panel
- Fatigue and Energy Profile
- Kidney Function Test
- Semen Analysis
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test
- Male Hormone Profile
- Comprehensive Male Fertility MOT
- Electrolytes Test
- Liver Function Test
- Thyroid Function Test
- Magnesium Test
- Full Blood Count
- Urinalysis & Culture
- Book an Appointment
- ECG Testing
- Wellness Profile
- Pancreatic Profile
- Advanced Sexual Health Panel
- STI Testing London
- Cardiac Profile
