Why are they not examined for cancer before conception?

The approach to cancer screening before conception can vary based on individual circumstances, including personal health history, family history, and the presence of risk factors. There are several reasons why routine cancer screening prior to conception may not be standard practice:

**Individual Risk Assessment**: Not everyone is at significant risk for cancer. Healthcare providers often assess individual risk factors such as age, family history, or genetic predispositions (e.g., BRCA mutations). If a person does not have identified risk factors, extensive cancer screening might not be deemed necessary.

**Screening Guidelines**: Different health organizations have specific guidelines about when and how often to screen for various types of cancer, and these guidelines may not necessarily align with the pre-conception period.

**Invasive Procedures**: Some cancer screening tests can be invasive or have risks associated with them. If a person is planning to conceive soon, healthcare providers may prioritize minimizing these risks.

**Importance of Early Prenatal Care**: For many, preventive care focuses on promoting a healthy pregnancy through prenatal vitamins, managing chronic health conditions, and vaccination rather than extensive screening for conditions like cancer unless symptoms or risks are present.

**Resources and Focus**: Many healthcare providers prioritize resources supporting pre-conception health such as optimizing nutrition, managing existing health conditions, and addressing lifestyle factors, as these can have a significant impact on the health of both the mother and the baby.

**Limited Evidence**: There is limited evidence to suggest that routine cancer screening before conception improves outcomes for pregnancies or reduces cancer risk in mothers.

Ultimately, if someone has concerns about cancer or has a family history of certain cancers, it’s advisable to discuss these concerns with a healthcare provider who can offer personalized recommendations based on individual circumstances.