Infection screening Before IVF treatment
Before starting IVF treatments, it is important to carry out a detailed fertility screening to identify and manage potential infectious diseases in prospective parents. This screening is designed to assess the risk of transmissible diseases and is a mandatory part of the preparations for couples wishing to undergo IVF. The serological screening includes a wide range of tests for diseases that can be transmitted through blood which are important to identify in order to protect both the parents and the future child as well as healthcare professionals. The analysis covers, for example, HIV, hepatitis, syphilis, rubella and HTLV.
Which analyzes are included in the fertility screening?
The fertility screening includes a careful analysis of the following markers and is intended to identify specific risks and protect against disease transmission:
Hepatitis B AK/AG: Analysis identifies both previous exposure to and current infection with the hepatitis B virus, which is important to prevent transmission to the child or the other partner.
Hepatitis C: HCV antibodies are specific antibodies that the body makes in response to a previous exposure to the Hepatitis C virus (HCV). These antibodies are used as markers to identify previous contact with the virus and are an important part of diagnostic tests for Hepatitis C.
HIV1/HIV2- Ak/Ag: This analysis is essential to detect possible exposure to or infection with the HIV virus, allowing the necessary measures to protect the child and the partner.
HTLV1-/HTLV2-Ak: Screening for human T-cell leukemia virus types 1 and 2 helps to identify risks that may affect the pregnancy and the health of the child.
Syphilis, IgG and IgM: Early detection of syphilis through IgG and IgM antibody tests is important to prevent transmission to the fetus and ensure treatment at an early stage.
Rubella IgG-Ak Screening for antibodies against the rubella virus, also known as rubella, which is crucial to prevent possible transmission of the virus to the fetus.
By analyzing these markers, it helps to minimize the risk of complications during IVF treatments and promotes a safe pregnancy.
Handling in case of positive test results
In the event of positive test results, the results are reported in accordance with the Infection Control Act (2004:168) and the Infection Control Ordinance (2004:255). The notification is sent to the infectious disease doctor in the county council and to the Public Health Agency. In these cases, infection tracing is initiated and those concerned are informed of the necessary rules of conduct. This process is fundamental to prevent the further spread of infections and ensure that everyone involved receives adequate information and support.
