Fertility tests are a great way to get insights into your (and your partner’s) reproductive health. The best one should address your specific reproductive goals and concerns.
Trying to conceive unfortunately isn’t always easy — and sometimes, we worry what this might mean about our fertility. That’s where fertility tests come in. Fertility tests are a great way to get insights into your (and your partner’s) reproductive health, so you can make informed decisions about your family planning.
You might be wondering: what’s exactly involved in a fertility test? What kind of fertility test should you take? Which tests are better than others? Here’s how to pick the best fertility test for you.
What is a fertility test? A fertility test is a diagnostic procedure that assesses an individual's or couple's reproductive health and their ability to conceive. It involves evaluating various factors that influence fertility, such as hormone levels, ovarian reserve, sperm quality, and reproductive anatomy. By undergoing a fertility test, individuals gain valuable insights into their reproductive potential, enabling them to make informed decisions about family planning or seek appropriate medical assistance if necessary.
Fertility tests not only provide information about potential fertility issues but also offer peace of mind for individuals who may have concerns about their reproductive health. They serve as a crucial first step toward understanding and addressing any underlying problems, paving the way for appropriate interventions and personalized fertility treatment plans.
What does fertility testing look like? Fertility testing can look a variety of ways depending on what type of fertility test you choose to do (more on that below!). Sometimes, a fertility test might be a blood test, a urine test, an ultrasound, or an X-ray.
The process of fertility testing typically begins with a consultation with a fertility specialist or reproductive endocrinologist . The healthcare provider will discuss the couple's medical history, lifestyle factors, and any existing concerns or challenges related to fertility. Based on this initial evaluation, the specialist may recommend specific tests tailored to the individual or couple's unique circumstances.
When should I take a fertility test? The optimal time to take a fertility test depends on a few factors: your age, reproductive goals, reproductive health, and how long you’ve been trying to conceive.
Generally, if you’re under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year without success, it's a good time to consider getting tested. For women over 35, it is recommended to seek testing after six months of unsuccessful attempts, as fertility tends to decline with age.
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However, there are certain situations when you might want to consider testing earlier. If you have a known history of reproductive health issues like PCOS , irregular menstrual cycles , or a family history of fertility problems, you may want to take a fertility test earlier in your reproductive journey.
Types of fertility tests Common fertility tests for women include blood tests to measure hormone levels, ultrasound scans to assess ovarian reserve and reproductive anatomy, and evaluation of the fallopian tubes' health.
Common fertility tests for men also include blood tests to measure hormone levels, as well as semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology (shape).
Hormone testing For women, hormone tests can measure levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) , estrogen, and progesterone . These tests help assess the function of the ovaries, predict ovulation, and identify hormonal imbalances that may impact fertility. In men, hormone testing may involve measuring testosterone levels to evaluate sperm production and overall reproductive health.
Ovarian reserve testing Ovarian reserve testing provides information about a woman's remaining egg supply. Common tests include measuring levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and follicle count through ultrasound imaging. These tests help estimate the quantity and quality of eggs available for fertilization.
Semen analysis Semen analysis involves analyzing a semen sample to evaluate sperm count, motility, morphology, and other parameters. This test helps determine the quality and quantity of sperm.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) HSG is an imaging test used to evaluate the structure and patency of the fallopian tubes and the uterus. It involves injecting a contrast agent into the uterus and taking X-ray images. HSG can help identify blockages or abnormalities in the reproductive organs that may hinder conception.
Which kind of fertility test is best? Unfortunately, there’s no one answer. When it comes to fertility testing, there isn't a single "best" test that suits everyone. Instead, there’s likely a “best fertility test” for you, depending on various factors: your reproductive health, any concerns or goals you have, and what healthcare professionals might recommend for you.
If you’re wondering what fertility test might be best for you, here’s what you should look for.
Individualized assessment The best fertility test is often the one that provides an individualized assessment of a person's or couple's unique situation. Fertility specialists take into account the medical history, symptoms, and concerns of the individuals involved. With a thorough evaluation, they can recommend tests that address specific fertility issues and provide the most relevant information to guide treatment decisions.
Diagnostic accuracy The accuracy of a fertility test is crucial in providing reliable results. Tests that have been extensively validated and have a high level of diagnostic accuracy are generally considered more beneficial. These tests help healthcare providers accurately diagnose fertility problems, leading to more targeted and effective treatment strategies.
Relevance to specific fertility issues Different fertility tests focus on specific aspects of reproductive health — so you want to choose the type of test that’s best for you and your reproductive health challenges. For example, hormone testing is particularly useful in assessing hormonal imbalances, while semen analysis provides insights into male factor fertility .
Cost and accessibility Some fertility tests may be more affordable and readily available, while others may be more specialized or require specific facilities or expertise. It's essential to discuss these aspects with healthcare providers to ensure that the chosen tests are both beneficial and feasible within the individual or couple's circumstances.
>>MORE: Infertility is Expensive. Here Are 7 Ways To Save Money When Trying to Conceive.
What fertility test is right for me? Fertility tests can give you helpful insights into your reproductive health no matter where you are in your conception journey. While there’s no one “best” fertility test, you can evaluate what kind of fertility test is best for you based on your goals, any concerns, accuracy, and accessibility. Finding the right fertility test for you can help you take control of your reproductive health — and feel empowered to make the best family planning decisions for you.
