Before engagement, or as early as you canStrong researchWith your doctorWindow closes soon
Thalassaemia and sickle cell test for both
One blood test each (CBC + HPLC). Best done before the families fix the match.
Why It Matters (Clinical Guidance)
- If both of you carry the same trait, each pregnancy has a 1 in 4 chance of a child with thalassaemia major or sickle cell disease.
- Being a carrier is healthy. Knowing early gives you safe options, including tests in pregnancy.
- Ask for HPLC. A CBC alone missed about 1 in 7 carriers in one Indian study.
Two Approved Approaches
Option A: Government hospital
Free screening in many districts under the sickle cell mission. Ask your ASHA.
Option B: Health Kundli
We book one test for both of you, with a counsellor to explain it.
Respectful Message for Elders & Family
Send on WhatsApp“Maa, the doctors advise one simple blood test for both of us before the wedding, for thalassaemia and sickle cell. It is like kundli matching, but for health. It protects our future children.”
If the window has passed: Still important. Do it before planning a baby.
Primary Citation: ICMR; National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission
Last checked: October 2026 • Medical review panel forming