The medical exam is a crucial step for all those who wish to obtain their residence visa in the United States. Although this process can cause nervousness, especially for expectant mothers, it is important to understand that there are specific protocols designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. From the initial interview to the completion of the process, here we explain everything you need to know about the immigration medical exam if you are pregnant.
What should I do before going to Ciudad Juarez for my immigration process?
Before your departure, we recommend that you visit your primary care doctor and bring your medical records with you. Please inform the doctor if you have any concerns or any recent bleeding or pain. The doctor may recommend an ultrasound to determine if your health status is suitable for travel.
What tests are performed in the immigration medical exam?
Before starting the immigration process, it is necessary to undergo a medical exam that includes several important tests to ensure the health of the applicants. These tests include:
- Eye exam: This is performed to evaluate visual acuity. If you wear glasses, make sure to bring them with you.
- Urine exam: This exam is only carried out on patients between 18 and 24 years of age.
- Blood test: This is performed on patients over 2 years of age to evaluate different blood parameters.
- Chest X-ray: This is performed on patients 15 years of age and older to detect possible lung problems.
- General medical exam: A general review of each patient is performed to evaluate their overall health status.
- Vaccinations: The applicant’s vaccination schedule is reviewed, and any missing vaccinations required by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are administered. In the event that an official vaccination card is not available, a provisional American vaccination card will be provided
Can pregnant women take the immigration medical exam?
Of course! Pregnant women can undergo the consular medical exam without any problem. There is no medical reason to avoid it. However, it is important that you, as a pregnant woman:
Inform the doctor about your pregnancy before starting the exam. The doctor will take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety and that of the baby. Communicate any concerns or previous medical conditions to the doctor.
Bring all your medical records with you to the exam, including prenatal records and the results of any laboratory tests done during the pregnancy.
What are the risks of the immigration medical exam for pregnant women?
There are NO RISKS in your residency medical exam, and we always take additional precautions to protect the pregnancy.
The chest X-ray is completely safe, as it is digital and has very low radiation. It is important that pregnant women give their consent for this test. In addition, they will be provided with additional protection in the abdominal and pelvic area with double-layered lead shields to ensure the safety of both the mother and the developing baby.
Can pregnant women be vaccinated?
- Vaccines are safe during pregnancy and help protect both the mother and the baby against serious illnesses. When a pregnant woman is vaccinated, she not only protects herself, but she is also providing early protection to the baby.
- The CDC has recommendations on the necessary vaccines before, during, and after pregnancy. Currently, the CDC recommends the Tdap and flu vaccines during pregnancy.
Receive the Tdap vaccine (to protect against whooping cough) during pregnancy. The flu vaccine can be administered before or during pregnancy, depending on whether it is flu season during the pregnancy. - It is safe for pregnant people to receive vaccines immediately after childbirth, even while breastfeeding.
- Live virus vaccines, such as MMR and varicella, should not be given to pregnant women, but should be administered before or after pregnancy, if indicated. Speak to your doctor about MMR, Tdap, and flu vaccines before getting vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended for pregnant individuals.
Recommendations for pregnant women preparing for the immigration medical exam:
- Consult with a doctor before the exam. The doctor can evaluate your health status and determine if the exam is safe for you.
- Inform the doctor about any medications you are taking.
- Rest sufficiently before and after the exam.
- Drink plenty of water before and after the exam.
- Eat breakfast before the exam.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Try to be accompanied by a family member or friend.
Conclusion
In summary, the medical exam for obtaining a “green card” for pregnant women does not pose any risk to mother and child. It is important to communicate the pregnancy to the doctor and give consent for tests such as the chest X-ray, where additional protection is provided. The medical exam is an essential part of the immigration process and is done to ensure the safety of everyone.
At Clínica Médica Internacional, we are here to support you in the process of your life! Do not hesitate to contact us to address any questions you may have.