Fertility Tests & Testing

Fertility testing plays a crucial role in understanding and assessing an individual or couple's reproductive health. Whether a couple is trying to conceive or planning for the future, fertility tests provide valuable insights into potential fertility challenges.

Why Get a Fertility Test?

If you’re reading this you’re likely trying to conceive or wanting to learn more about your overall fertility health. Fertility testing gives you valuable insight into your fertility health for both women and men. It’s recommended that you see a fertility specialist for testing if you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months and are under the age of 35, or 6 months if you are older than 35. There are also additional reasons to test your fertility, from family history, symptoms, life planning, and medical conditions.

What Is a Fertility Test?

Fertility testing involves a series of medical evaluations and assessments to determine an individual's or couple's ability to conceive. These tests aim to identify any underlying reproductive issues that may be hindering successful pregnancy and help healthcare professionals design personalized treatment plans. Fertility tests are an essential part of fertility evaluation and treatment. Your regular gynecologist may do some basic testing, but typically, you will be referred to a fertility specialist for full evaluation.

Why Test Fertility?

Fertility testing is essential for several reasons:

Identifying Underlying Issues: Fertility tests can uncover any underlying reproductive health problems that may be preventing conception. Early detection of issues allows for timely intervention and treatment.
Personalized Treatment: The results of fertility testing help healthcare providers tailor treatment plans to address specific challenges, increasing the chances of successful conception.
Emotional Support: For couples facing difficulties in conceiving, fertility testing provides clarity and understanding, reducing stress and anxiety associated with uncertainty.
Family Planning: Fertility testing is beneficial for individuals or couples planning to start a family in the future. It helps assess their current reproductive health and allows them to make informed decisions.

Types of Fertility Tests

Fertility tests fall into two main categories: blood tests and imaging tests. Imaging tests could include a pelvic ultrasound which looks for uterine or fallopian tube disease, a saline sonogram (SIS), a hysterosalpingogram (HSG), or a hysteroscopy is used to see details inside the uterus that can't be seen on a regular ultrasound. Fertility testing for men and women may involve different types of tests. Blood tests measure hormones in both the male and female partner, and imaging allows the specialist to assess your uterus for physical issues. Some common fertility tests include:

Fertility Testing for Women:

Ovulation Monitoring: Tracking ovulation through methods like basal body temperature charting or ovulation predictor kits helps determine the most fertile days in a woman's menstrual cycle.
Hormone Testing: Blood tests to assess hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone.
Ovarian Reserve Testing: Evaluating the quantity and quality of a woman's remaining eggs through tests like anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC).
Hysterosalpingography (HSG): An X-ray procedure to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes for any abnormalities or blockages.
Transvaginal Ultrasound: This imaging technique allows doctors to assess the condition of the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.

Fertility Testing for Men:

Semen Analysis: A semen sample is analyzed to assess sperm count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and other factors affecting sperm health.
Hormone Testing: Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels, including testosterone and luteinizing hormone (LH).
Scrotal Ultrasound: An imaging test to assess the testicles and surrounding structures for any abnormalities.
Genetic testing. Genetic testing may be done to determine whether there's a genetic defect causing infertility.
Testicular biopsy. In select cases, a testicular biopsy may be performed to identify abnormalities contributing to infertility or to retrieve sperm for assisted reproductive techniques, such as IVF.
Imaging. In certain situations, imaging studies such as a brain MRI, transrectal or scrotal ultrasound, or a test of the vas deferens (vasography) may be performed.
Other specialty testing. In rare cases, other tests to evaluate the quality of the sperm may be performed, such as evaluating

How Accurate Are Fertility Tests?

The accuracy of fertility tests depends on various factors, including the specific test being performed, the skill of the healthcare professional conducting the test, and the individual's overall health. Overall, fertility tests are reliable indicators of reproductive health, and their accuracy helps guide appropriate treatment options.

Fertility Testing for Men and Women

Fertility testing is equally essential for both men and women as reproductive health is a shared responsibility. By conducting fertility tests for both partners, healthcare providers can identify any potential issues that may impact conception and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions.

Fertility testing is a valuable tool in assessing an individual's or couple's reproductive health and journey to parenthood. By identifying any underlying issues early on, healthcare providers can design personalized treatment plans, increasing the chances of successful conception. Fertility testing provides couples with clarity, empowerment, and support, fostering a positive and informed approach to family planning. If you are considering starting a family or experiencing difficulties in conceiving, consulting with a qualified healthcare professional about fertility testing is a crucial first step towards understanding your reproductive health and achieving your dreams of parenthood.