Fertility Testing for Couples Trying to Conceive

Did you know that as many as 6.1 million couples in the United States struggle with infertility?

Infertility is defined as a period of at least 12 months of trying to conceive without a successful pregnancy. This period is reduced to six months if a woman is over the age of 35, since women reach their fertility peak during their mid 20s. There are a variety of reasons as to why some couples experience problems getting pregnant, and fertility testing can provide a better understanding of reproductive health issues that may be affecting fertility.

If you and your partner are having difficulties trying to conceive, turning to fertility testing may prove to be a step in the right direction. Fertility testing procedures vary widely, from simple home fertility tests and natural methods, to advanced fertility testing that require more comprehensive assessment.

The prospect of fertility testing does not have to be a daunting concept, since there are simple steps and guides that can help couples gain a comprehensive understanding of fertility testing options available, and what these tests can determine.

What Do I Need To Know About Fertility Testing?
The most important thing you need to know about fertility testing - and fertility treatment in general – is to do your research. There are many options available to couples who are trying to conceive.

Home fertility tests can include testing kits or simple and old methods that require an understanding of the reproductive system. For instance, one of the first fertility tests that women will use requires monitoring ovulation and basal body temperatures (BBT). For men, at-home fertility test kits are available to assess male fertility on the basis of sperm count and sperm motility.

However, if a more specific fertility problem is suspected, it may be advised to seek help from a health care provider or fertility specialist. There are some general preliminary tests that are performed when couples seek this type of counseling. Following an initial consultation, preliminary tests for both men and women can include blood tests, ultrasounds, semen analysis testing, immunobead testing, post-coital tests, and hormone tests.

Following these initial fertility testing procedures, if further analysis is required in order to provide a diagnosis, some advanced fertility testing procedures may be recommended. These can include laparoscopy, Day 3 Inhibin B tests, and antibody tests in women. For men, more advanced fertility testing may include a testicular biopsy or a sperm penetration test.

Fertility Testing Concerns
Couples who are undergoing fertility testing are often faced with particular concerns. From financial aspects to the emotional side of infertility, there are many resources available for individuals who are trying to conceive.

It is important to remember that you are not alone and that there are methods out there aimed at improving fertility. Infertility affects approximately one in every six couples in the United States, and understanding conditions that may be affecting fertility can help couples cope with problems affecting fertility and pave the way to pregnancy.

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