{"id":1024,"date":"2025-01-26T20:28:26","date_gmt":"2025-01-26T19:28:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/?p=1024"},"modified":"2025-01-26T20:29:40","modified_gmt":"2025-01-26T19:29:40","slug":"why-knowing-your-hemoglobin-genotype-is-crucial-before-having-children","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/why-knowing-your-hemoglobin-genotype-is-crucial-before-having-children\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Knowing Your Hemoglobin Genotype is Crucial Before Having Children"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why Knowing Your Hemoglobin Genotype is Crucial Before Having Children<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p>When planning to start a family, there are many factors to consider\u2014financial stability, emotional readiness, and health, to name a few. One aspect that often goes overlooked but is critically important is knowing your&nbsp;<strong>hemoglobin genotype<\/strong>. Your genotype, and that of your partner, can have a significant impact on the health of your future children. Here\u2019s why understanding your hemoglobin genotype should be a priority before having children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What is a Hemoglobin Genotype?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. Your hemoglobin genotype is determined by the genes you inherit from your parents. The most common genotypes are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>AA<\/strong>: Normal hemoglobin.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AS<\/strong>: Sickle cell trait (carrier of one abnormal gene).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>AC<\/strong>: Another variant of hemoglobin trait.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>SS<\/strong>: Sickle cell anemia (inherited two abnormal genes).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>S<\/strong>C: Sickle cell anemia (inherited two abnormal genes).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing your genotype helps you understand your risk of passing on genetic blood disorders, such as&nbsp;<strong>sickle cell disease (SCD)<\/strong>, to your children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why is it Important to Know Your Genotype Before Having Children?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Prevent <a href=\"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/2023\/09\/09\/understanding-sickle-cell-disease-causes-symptoms-and-treatment\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"247\">Sickle Cell Disease<\/a> in Your Children<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Sickle cell disease is a serious, lifelong condition that affects the shape and function of red blood cells, leading to recurrent body pains, low blood level, frequent blood transfusion, reduced immunity, blood clot issues and other complications. If both parents are carriers of the sickle cell trait (AS or AC), there is a&nbsp;<strong>25% chance<\/strong>&nbsp;their child will inherit sickle cell disease (SS or SC). Knowing your genotype allows you to make informed decisions and explore options like genetic counseling or prenatal testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"640\" height=\"287\" src=\"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_Cell_Anaemia_red_blood_cells_in_blood_vessels.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1029\" srcset=\"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_Cell_Anaemia_red_blood_cells_in_blood_vessels.png 640w, https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_Cell_Anaemia_red_blood_cells_in_blood_vessels-300x135.png 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Make Informed Family Planning Decisions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Couples who are both carriers of the sickle cell trait (AS) or other hemoglobin variants may choose to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Consider adoption or other family-building options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pursue&nbsp;<strong>preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD)<\/strong>&nbsp;during IVF to select embryos without the disease(this method are very expensive and not always available in Nigeria).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Promote Awareness and Break the Cycle<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Many people are unaware of their genotype until they face complications during pregnancy or after the birth of a child with a blood disorder. By knowing your genotype, you can raise awareness among family and friends, encouraging them to get tested and make informed decisions as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Ensure a Healthy Pregnancy<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Pregnant women with sickle cell trait or disease are at higher risk for complications such as&nbsp;<strong>preeclampsia<\/strong>,&nbsp;<strong>miscarriage<\/strong>, or&nbsp;<strong>preterm birth<\/strong>. Knowing your genotype allows healthcare providers to monitor and manage your pregnancy more effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How to Find Out Your Hemoglobin Genotype<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Getting tested is simple and involves a&nbsp;<strong>blood test<\/strong>&nbsp;that can be done at most hospitals or clinics. Parents should check their newborns Genotype at the age of 6 months upwards. If you don\u2019t know your genotype, ask your doctor about testing\u2014it\u2019s a small step that can have a big impact on your family\u2019s future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>The Bigger Picture<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Knowing your hemoglobin genotype is more than just a personal health concern\u2014it\u2019s about ensuring the well-being of future generations. By taking this step, you can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Reduce the prevalence of genetic blood disorders.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Empower yourself with knowledge to make informed decisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Give your children the best possible start in life.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Starting a family is one of life\u2019s most exciting journeys, but it comes with responsibilities. Knowing your hemoglobin genotype is a simple yet powerful way to protect your future children and contribute to a healthier society. Don\u2019t leave it to chance\u2014get tested today and encourage your partner to do the same.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Take the first step toward a healthier future for your family!<\/strong>&nbsp;Visit&nbsp;<strong>Mascot Healthcare Clinic<\/strong>&nbsp;today to schedule your hemoglobin genotype test. Our caring team is here to guide you every step of the way. Together, let\u2019s build a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Call us now at&nbsp;<strong>08165866252<\/strong> or visit our clinic for a walk-in test.  Your future family deserves the best\u2014act now!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>At&nbsp;<strong>Mascot Healthcare Clinic<\/strong>, your health and peace of mind are our top priorities. Let\u2019s make your journey to parenthood safe and informed!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Why Knowing Your Hemoglobin Genotype is Crucial Before Having Children When planning to start a family, there are many factors to consider\u2014financial stability, emotional readiness, and health, to name a few. One aspect that often goes overlooked but is critically important is knowing your&nbsp;hemoglobin genotype. Your genotype, and that of your partner, can have a [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1028,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"pagelayer_contact_templates":[],"_pagelayer_content":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[24],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1024","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wellness-and-health"],"magazineBlocksPostFeaturedMedia":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration-150x150.jpg","medium":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration-300x228.jpg","medium_large":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg","large":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg","1536x1536":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg","2048x2048":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg"},"magazineBlocksPostAuthor":{"name":"mascothealthcare","avatar":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e6245491479ada5c011d746103e188e52935679f353558c771f24bdf2eb1c016?s=96&d=mm&r=g"},"magazineBlocksPostCommentsNumber":false,"magazineBlocksPostExcerpt":"Why Knowing Your Hemoglobin Genotype is Crucial Before Having Children When planning to start a family, there are many factors to consider\u2014financial stability, emotional readiness, and health, to name a few. One aspect that often goes overlooked but is critically important is knowing your&nbsp;hemoglobin genotype. Your genotype, and that of your partner, can have a [&hellip;]","magazineBlocksPostCategories":["Wellness and Health"],"magazineBlocksPostViewCount":810,"magazineBlocksPostReadTime":4,"magazine_blocks_featured_image_url":{"full":["https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg",640,486,false],"medium":["https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration-300x228.jpg",300,228,true],"thumbnail":["https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration-150x150.jpg",150,150,true]},"magazine_blocks_author":{"display_name":"mascothealthcare","author_link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/author\/mascothealthcare\/"},"magazine_blocks_comment":0,"magazine_blocks_author_image":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/e6245491479ada5c011d746103e188e52935679f353558c771f24bdf2eb1c016?s=96&d=mm&r=g","magazine_blocks_category":"<a href=\"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/wellness-and-health\/\" rel=\"category tag\">Wellness and Health<\/a>","jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack-related-posts":[{"id":1569,"url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/understanding-genotype-ac-what-you-need-to-know\/","url_meta":{"origin":1024,"position":0},"title":"Understanding Genotype AC: What You Need to Know","author":"mascothealthcare","date":"July 13, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"By Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Lagos When we talk about genotypes, most people are familiar with AA, AS, and SS. But there\u2019s another less common one \u2014 Genotype AC. At Mascot Healthcare, we believe knowledge is key to staying healthy and making informed choices, especially when it comes to your genes.\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Medical Conditions&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Medical Conditions","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/medical-conditions\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Human_Red_Blood_Cells_-_Rouleau_stacking.gif?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Human_Red_Blood_Cells_-_Rouleau_stacking.gif?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Human_Red_Blood_Cells_-_Rouleau_stacking.gif?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":1908,"url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/can-as-and-ac-marry-each-other\/","url_meta":{"origin":1024,"position":1},"title":"Can AS and AC Marry Each Other?","author":"mascothealthcare","date":"February 12, 2026","format":false,"excerpt":"Can AS and AC Marry? What Every Couple Must Know Before Saying \u201cI Do\u201d Sickle cell disease remains a major health challenge in Nigeria. Many couples preparing for marriage ask: Can someone with AS genotype marry someone with AC genotype? The medically honest answer is: If your goal is zero\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Healthcare Systems and Policies&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Healthcare Systems and Policies","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/healthcare-systems-and-policies\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"sickle cell","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Sickle_cells_illustration.jpg?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":247,"url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/understanding-sickle-cell-disease-causes-symptoms-and-treatment\/","url_meta":{"origin":1024,"position":2},"title":"Understanding Sickle Cell Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment","author":"mascothealthcare","date":"June 9, 2025","format":false,"excerpt":"Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorders that affect the shape and function of red blood cells. It is a genetic condition that primarily affects individuals of African, Mediterranean, or Indian descent. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sickle cell disease.\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Child and Adolescent Health&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Child and Adolescent Health","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/child-and-adolescent-health\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/red-blood-cells-4256710_640.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/red-blood-cells-4256710_640.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/red-blood-cells-4256710_640.jpg?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":748,"url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/common-diagnoses-discovered-in-routine-health-checks\/","url_meta":{"origin":1024,"position":3},"title":"Common Diagnoses Discovered in Routine Health Checks","author":"mascothealthcare","date":"June 22, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Health checks often reveal a variety of common diagnoses, some of which may not present noticeable symptoms initially but can have significant long-term health implications if left untreated. Here are some of the most frequently discovered conditions during routine health checks: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Often asymptomatic. Can lead to\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Wellness and Health&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Wellness and Health","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/wellness-and-health\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"lab test","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/blood-test-5601437_640.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/blood-test-5601437_640.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/06\/blood-test-5601437_640.jpg?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x"},"classes":[]},{"id":880,"url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/essential-supplements-every-pregnant-mother-needs-to-know\/","url_meta":{"origin":1024,"position":4},"title":"Essential Supplements Every Pregnant Mother Needs to Know","author":"mascothealthcare","date":"November 1, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"Pregnancy is a time when the body needs extra support to nurture and grow a healthy baby. A balanced diet provides many essential nutrients, but in pregnancy, supplements are often necessary to meet increased nutritional needs. Let\u2019s look at the most essential supplements for a healthy pregnancy, why they're needed,\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Wellness and Health&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Wellness and Health","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/wellness-and-health\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pexels-pixabay-208518-scaled.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pexels-pixabay-208518-scaled.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pexels-pixabay-208518-scaled.jpg?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pexels-pixabay-208518-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pexels-pixabay-208518-scaled.jpg?resize=1050%2C600&ssl=1 3x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pexels-pixabay-208518-scaled.jpg?resize=1400%2C800&ssl=1 4x"},"classes":[]},{"id":716,"url":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/why-too-much-screen-time-is-bad-for-your-kid\/","url_meta":{"origin":1024,"position":5},"title":"Why too much screen time is bad for your kid","author":"mascothealthcare","date":"July 4, 2024","format":false,"excerpt":"The amount of screen time that is considered \"too much\" can vary based on age and developmental stages. Here are some general guidelines: For Infants and Toddlers (0-2 years): Under 18 months: Avoid screen time except for video chatting. 18-24 months: If you introduce digital media, choose high-quality programming and\u2026","rel":"","context":"In &quot;Child and Adolescent Health&quot;","block_context":{"text":"Child and Adolescent Health","link":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/category\/child-and-adolescent-health\/"},"img":{"alt_text":"children using smartphone","src":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/pexels-olly-4867670-scaled.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1","width":350,"height":200,"srcset":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/pexels-olly-4867670-scaled.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1 1x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/pexels-olly-4867670-scaled.jpg?resize=525%2C300&ssl=1 1.5x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/pexels-olly-4867670-scaled.jpg?resize=700%2C400&ssl=1 2x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/pexels-olly-4867670-scaled.jpg?resize=1050%2C600&ssl=1 3x, https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/pexels-olly-4867670-scaled.jpg?resize=1400%2C800&ssl=1 4x"},"classes":[]}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1024","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1024"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1024\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1031,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1024\/revisions\/1031"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1028"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1024"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1024"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mascothealthcare.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1024"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}