What happens at the premarital health check in Bahrain, and who has to do it?

Bahrain requires a premarital medical check for couples marrying here when at least one partner is Bahraini. The Ministry of Health offers it at all its health centres.

What it looks for: inherited (hereditary) blood disorders and some sexually transmitted infections. You can also get vaccinations and advice on lifestyle and family planning.

How it works

  1. Both partners go to any health centre that suits you and sign a consent form at the mother and child health section.
  2. A nurse appointment (about 30 minutes), then a doctor appointment (about 30 minutes).
  3. You come back for the results: about 20 minutes together, or 5 minutes each if you come separately.

If a result is abnormal: couples at genetic risk are referred to the genetics department at Salmaniya Medical Complex for counselling. A social worker can also be arranged for marriage counselling.

The catch: the check gives you information and counselling. It doesn't decide whether you can marry. Start early, because the results come at a separate follow-up visit.

Steps

  1. Choose a health centre and go together to the mother and child health section.
  2. Sign the consent form.
  3. Attend the nurse and doctor appointments and give blood samples.
  4. Return for the results and the certificate.

Recommended places