Thinking about having a 👶🏻🍼? Read this first.
We’ve been married for about two years now, and it feels like the right time to start thinking about having a 👼🏻🍼
One thing I’d highly recommend doing before you start trying is genetic screening. It can give you and your partner more information about potential genetic risks and some peace of mind 💯
So what is Carrier Couple Screening?
It’s a screening test for healthy individuals to find out whether they and their partner carry certain genetic variants that could increase the chance of having a child with a genetic condition, even if neither parent has any symptoms.
Some genetic conditions may not be apparent at birth and can only become noticeable later in childhood or life.
⭐️ The programme screens for more than 80 conditions associated with over 100 genes that are relevant to the Singapore population.
‼️ Some of these conditions can be serious and may result in reduced lifespan during infancy or childhood, intellectual disabilities, or other significant health complications.
We did ours at KKH, and the whole process was really straightforward. All they needed was a blood sample, and the best part was that the screening was completely subsidized 👀🙌🏻
The only downside was the waiting time. We were told that the results could take around six months, which we didn’t realise beforehand. Since the free/subsidized programme is expected to run until 2027, do consider signing up now if you’re eligible!
Who can apply?
Married couples with at least one partner being a Singapore Citizen or Singapore Permanent Resident.
Eligibility requirements can change, so I’d recommend checking directly with KKH to confirm whether you qualify.
📱 WhatsApp (text only): 6394 3998
📧 Email: carrierscreening@singhealth.com.sg
If you’re thinking about starting a family, this is definitely something worth discussing with your partner and healthcare provider 🫶🏻
#familyplanning #genetictesting #pregnantjourney #tryingtoconceivejourney #parentinghack
When my partner and I decided to start trying for a baby, one of our top priorities was ensuring we understood any potential genetic health risks that could affect our future child. Undergoing Carrier Couple Screening gave us a comprehensive overview of possible inherited conditions that neither of us showed symptoms for but could potentially pass on. The screening program offered at KKH was convenient and reassuring. It primarily targets couples where at least one partner is a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident, which covers a large portion of the local population. What stood out was that the test covered over 80 genetic conditions linked to more than 100 genes, carefully selected based on their relevance to Singaporeans. This level of targeted screening provides valuable insights that generic tests might miss. One important thing to prepare for is the waiting period, which can be up to six months due to the subsidized nature and high demand of the program. While it may feel like a long time, this wait is a small price to pay for the peace of mind the test provides. The blood sample collection was straightforward with minimal discomfort, and the support staff were very helpful in answering our questions. Through this experience, I also learned that some genetic conditions might only manifest later in childhood or even adulthood, emphasizing why early knowledge is crucial for proactive family planning. The screening isn’t about predicting immediate problems but about equipping you to make informed decisions with your partner and healthcare providers. Furthermore, if you are considering this screening, it’s a good idea to contact KKH directly via WhatsApp or email to confirm your eligibility and inquire about appointment availability. Given the program is subsidized and expected to continue until 2027, signing up sooner rather than later is beneficial. Personally, undergoing genetic screening before conception was empowering—it wasn’t just about identifying risks but about embracing a responsible approach to parenthood. Sharing this information with my partner and healthcare provider helped us navigate our family planning journey with greater confidence and clarity. If you’re on the verge of this exciting chapter, consider genetic screening as a meaningful step toward a healthy start for your future family.
