Fertility test: what it is, types and how to do it

Fertility testing is a method that assesses male or female fertility, and is generally indicated to help identify some problems that make pregnancy difficult, such as polycystic ovaries, hormonal changes, ejaculation problems or endometriosis.

Fertility tests can be done by men and women through the use of self-tests at home, or with tests recommended by a doctor, such as genetic testing, ultrasound, blood test, spermogram or hysteroscopy, for example.

If you suspect fertility problems, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist or urologist to carry out a complete evaluation and, if necessary, recommend treatment for infertility, which may include the use of hormones, antibiotics or surgery.

Types and how to do it

There are different types of fertility tests that can be done at home or recommended by a doctor for men and women.

1. Male Fertility Tests

The main male fertility tests are:

• Genetic testing: this test is indicated when the sperm concentration is very low, and is carried out using a blood sample to check whether there are changes in the Y chromosome;
• Blood test: assesses testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels;
• Spermogram: The spermogram assesses whether the pH, quantity and quality of sperm are within normal levels. For this test, a semen sample is collected through masturbation. Find out how the spermogram is done;
• Ultrasound: This exam evaluates whether there are infections, tumors or cysts in the prostate ducts, scrotum, seminal vesicles and ejaculatory ducts.

In addition, male fertility testing can also be done at home, using self-tests that are sold in pharmacies under the trade names Confirme, Veroval and Fast Test, for example. See how to take a male fertility test at home.

2. Female Fertility Tests

The main female fertility tests are:

• Ovulation Test: It can be done at home and assesses the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the urine, indicating when pregnancy is most likely to occur. Find out how to take an ovulation test.
• Blood test: it is indicated to evaluate hormonal levels of progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), LH, prolactin and TSH, for example;
• Ultrasound: transvaginal ultrasound assesses whether there are diseases in the uterus or ovaries;
• Hysteroscopy: during this exam, the doctor inserts a thin catheter through the cervix into the uterus to visualize any changes, such as polyps, fibroids or bleeding;
• Videolaparoscopy: is a procedure where a thin device is inserted, through small incisions below the navel, to identify possible problems such as endometriosis, blockages or changes in the ovaries and uterus.

In addition, the doctor may also recommend hysterosalpingography, an exam that is performed by inserting a catheter into the cervix to evaluate changes, such as fibroids, adhesions or malformations. See how hysterosalpingography is performed.

How to prevent infertility

Infertility caused by disease or genetic changes cannot be prevented. However, when it is related to habits, some measures can be adopted to prevent infertility, such as:

• Prevent sexually transmitted infections;
• Avoid the use of illicit drugs;
• Maintain good personal hygiene;
• Practice physical activities regularly;
• Maintain a healthy and varied diet;
• Maintain adequate weight.

Furthermore, avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol in large quantities are also measures that help reduce the risk of infertility.