The Benefits of Home Fertility Testing

Whether you are just beginning to think about starting a family, or have been trying to conceive for a while, at home fertility testing can help you to take control of your journey. 

Home test kits allow a couple to check the male partner’s sperm count, and to check female hormone levels. Using these tests represents a first step in checking your fertility, empowering you to make an informed decision about any future investigations.

In this article we will look at the benefits of checking your fertility at home. 

Male and Female Tests Offer Empowerment

Both men and women can get fast, highly accurate results to assess their fertility potential at home. The tests are also very simple to use. As it is quick and easy to get results, after doing the tests the first time some couples choose to repeat the tests at regular intervals to track their fertility.

Tests for Men

Babystart FertilCount male home fertility tests detect sperm concentration. The test result indicates whether the concentration of a sperm sample is above or below the fertility standard established by the World Health Organisation (WHO). If the sperm concentration is lower than expected, conception may take longer or may be unlikely to occur naturally. It is therefore wise to seek medical advice if your test result indicates a low sperm concentration.

Tests for Women

A urine sample is required to perform the Babystart FertilCheck female fertility tests. These tests check for the presence of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) which forms a normal part of a woman’s menstrual cycle. If a very high level of FSH is detected, this may indicate a lower reserve of eggs in a woman’s ovaries. In this situation, you may find it harder to conceive and it is therefore advisable to speak to your GP who may request further tests. 

Test Results Aid Decision Making

The male and female tests allow you to become more knowledgeable about your fertility from the comfort of your own home. For many couples, testing at home provides reassurance that everything is as it should be. However, for others, the tests may indicate that medical advice is required. These couples may require further assessment, and some might require fertility treatment to conceive.  

Testing Avoids Some GP Appointments

Visiting the GP can be an anxious time for many people. Fertility is an emotive subject, and at home testing initially allows you to tackle this sensitive topic privately and conveniently.

It is common for men to feel uncomfortable about being asked to provide a semen sample. Home testing removes some of the anxiety or embarrassment around this. If the sperm concentration appears to be low on home testing, you may feel more confident to visit your GP for advice based on the information you have already gained.

Some people have found it harder to see their GP during the pandemic, and it may currently take longer for the initial fertility screening tests to be completed via the NHS. Some couples have been left feeling anxious or isolated as a result. Being able to take control of assessing or monitoring your fertility at home can be beneficial in reducing any anxiety. Couples who take a test and have concerns can then seek more specific advice from their GP.

A Great First Step

The FertilTest Couple Bundle is a great first step in feeling empowered when trying to conceive. The tests will give a good indication of sperm concentration and female hormone levels to help you understand your fertility, while the supplements support healthy conception. 

If the tests are normal, this basic knowledge can give you the reassurance you need to keep trying to conceive. If the tests suggest that your fertility might be a little lower than you had hoped, then it is wise to speak to your GP for advice or further investigation. 

A GP may refer you for blood tests to accurately assess hormone levels, or ask for a sperm sample that will be carefully assessed in a laboratory. These tests are available on the NHS, and a referral to fertility services can be made if required. 

Final Thoughts

When you are trying to conceive it can be an anxious time. At home testing empowers you to learn more about your fertility in the comfort and privacy of your own home. 

If the tests suggest that there may be a factor that is affecting your fertility, or if you have been struggling to conceive despite trying for several months, it is important to visit your GP for further assessment.

You may find it helpful to track or support your fertility with male or female home testing kits, combined kits for both men and women, or a couple bundle that includes pre-conception supplements.