Fertility testing is key to understanding your reproductive health and identifying potential challenges in conception. By detecting any underlying issues early, you can make well-informed decisions about your family planning and explore treatment options if needed.
The Advantage of Early Testing
Many couples wait until they are actively trying to conceive before thinking about fertility testing. However, there are advantages to getting tested earlier. This proactive step can bring peace of mind and allow for early interventions if necessary.
For those already trying to conceive, testing is usually recommended after:
- One year of unsuccessful attempts for women under 35
- Six months of unsuccessful attempts for women over 35
Earlier testing may be necessary if there are known medical concerns or specific factors affecting fertility, such as the following:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Difficulty conceiving despite regular, unprotected intercourse.
- History of miscarriage or complications during previous pregnancies
- Diagnosed conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- A history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Male partners experiencing ejaculation difficulties.
- General concerns about family planning
Common Fertility Tests
For Women:
- Ovulation Assessment: This typically involves blood tests to check hormone levels or ultrasounds to monitor follicle development in the ovaries.
- Ovarian Reserve Testing: This assesses the quantity and quality of a woman’s eggs using blood tests that measure Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels and an antral follicle count via ultrasound.
- Pelvic Exam and Imaging: A pelvic ultrasound helps detect abnormalities like fibroids, polyps, or cysts that could interfere with conception.
- Hormonal Analysis: Blood tests evaluate key reproductive hormones and thyroid hormones.
For Men:
The most common test for male fertility is a semen analysis, which assesses sperm health, including sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Virtus Andrology Lab also performs a DNA fragmentation test, which examines the DNA within the sperm cells to see if it is damaged or broken. This can affect the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg, and a high level of fragmentation can be a reason for unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or failed IVF cycles. Identifying this can help tailor appropriate treatments.
In addition, knowing the level of DNA fragmentation can guide doctors in recommending treatments such as lifestyle changes, antioxidant therapy, or advanced reproductive techniques like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).
Understanding Your Results
Once the tests are complete, the fertility specialist will review the results with you. Fertility issues can be multifaceted, and if any problems are identified, your doctor will recommend treatment options. These might include medications, lifestyle changes, or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.
The Emotional Aspect of Fertility Testing
Fertility testing can be emotionally overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel anxious during the process. Seeking support from your partner, family, friends, or a professional counsellor can help you navigate the emotional challenges.
Next Steps
If you’re considering fertility testing, consult your fertility specialist. They will guide you through the process, address any concerns, and help you determine the most appropriate next steps based on your results.
Remember, every fertility journey is unique, and understanding your reproductive health can help you achieve your family planning goals.
This blog article originally appeared on the Virtus Fertility Centre Australia webpage.
