Today, several couples struggle to conceive. More couples struggle with infertility than is generally assumed; worldwide, it affects as many as one out of every six couples.

Dr. Sneha Sathe, the clinical director of Nova IVF Fertility in Mumbai's Chembur, told an Lifestyle Magazine in an interview, "One of the best ways to take charge of your fertility is to get tested early. Fertility testing can provide valuable insights into your reproductive health and guide your next steps, whether it’s lifestyle changes, medications, or treatments like IUI and IVF.”

The reason why testing is crucial

"If you've been trying for a long time without success, it can be overwhelming," stated Dr. Sneha Sathe. Many couples experience embarrassment, worry, or disappointment. Clarity can result from being tested. Early fertility testing can reveal issues if there are any, but it can also provide peace of mind.

"Sadly, many couples delay testing—sometimes because they aren't aware it exists, they think it's only for couples who have been trying for many years, or they worry that it's too complex and intrusive," she said. Understanding your fertility sooner may actually make all the difference. Tests for women concentrate on factors that influence fertility, such as hormone levels, ovulation, and the condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Semen analysis for men reveals details regarding sperm count, motility, and morphology, all of which affect fertility.

Basic exams that every couple should start with

Dr. Sneha Sathe suggested that couples perform general tests that give crucial health data before proceeding to more specific investigations.

Blood Tests for Both Couples:

1. Check for blood group and compatibility

2. full blood count (CBC)

3. Testing for diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and C

4. Blood glucose

5. Amount of vitamin D

6. Liver and kidney function tests may be performed in specific instances.

Additional Exams for Women:

1. Thyroid test (TSH)

2. Prolactin levels

Women's Fertility Exams

1. AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): used to determine egg reserves

2. Ultrasound: to inspect the ovaries and uterus

3. Sonohysterogram (SSG) or HSG (Hysterosalpingography): to see whether the fallopian tubes are open. Typically, they are not included in the initial round of testing. Later, your doctor might suggest them, especially if you've been attempting to get pregnant for a while without success and all other test findings are within the normal range.

Male Fertility Tests

Testing is usually straightforward and painless, and male fertility is equally crucial.

1. Semen analysis is the most important test. It examines the quantity, movement (motility), and form (morphology) of the sperm.

2. Sometimes hormone tests and/or genetic tests are performed.

The advantages of early testing

The most important factor determining a woman's fertility is her age. "Fertility begins to decrease with age, and after 35 it declines even more sharply, since the number and quality of eggs both diminish with age," stated Dr. Sneha Sathe. Early testing helps you plan better, especially if you're over 30 or have other risk factors."

“If you’ve been attempting to conceive for more than a year (or six months if you’re over 35), it’s a good idea to be tested," she said in conclusion. The majority of the fundamental tests only require one blood sample or one sperm sample. Based on your specific circumstances, your fertility specialist will analyze the data and make recommendations for the next steps. A supportive attitude, open communication with your healthcare provider, and prompt testing can make all the difference. The aim is straightforward: to assist you in becoming parents in the safest and healthiest manner possible.

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