Fertility Screening: What You Need To Know

Fertility is one of the most crucial elements of your life that allows you to experience the joy of parenthood. But some couples might face challenges in conceiving naturally. Fertility screening is a valuable tool that can help you shed some light on the potential factors affecting your fertility and pave the way to work successful family planning. Under this guide, you can learn everything about fertility screening. It is essential to know the basics as it can empower you on the journey to starting a family.

Types Of Fertility Screening Tests

Basal Body Temperature Charting

This screening test includes tracking your body temperature throughout your menstrual cycle. The best part about this method is that it helps identify the slight temperature rise after ovulation, indicating the most fertile time.

Cervical Mucus Testing

Cervical mucus changes throughout your menstrual cycle, becoming thin and stretchy during ovulation time. Keeping a tab on these changes can help you predict the optimum time for conception.

Ovulation Predictor Kits

These are home kits that measure luteinizing hormone levels in urine. A surge in LH indicates ovulation is imminent, and it provides a clue that it’s a good time for you to have intercourse.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone And Estradiol Testing

Follicle-stimulating hormones and estradiol hormones are involved in ovulation. Testing their levels can help you reveal your hormonal imbalances, which might impact your fertility.

Hysterosalpingogram

It is basically an X-ray procedure that examines your uterus and fallopian tubes. It helps in identifying any blockages or abnormalities that might be a barrier in your pregnancy.

Saline Infusion Sonogram

A saline infusion sonogram is about infusing a saline solution into your uterus while performing an ultrasound. This procedure helps you detect any structural issues in your uterus or the fallopian tubes.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows your doctors to understand the reproductive organs and diagnose some conditions like endometriosis and pelvic adhesions.

Benefits Of Fertility Screening

Fertility screening offers plenty of benefits to you as a couple looking forward to conceiving.

Identifying Any Underlying Medical Conditions

Fertility screening can help you uncover several medical conditions which might be hindering your conception, like hormonal imbalances, blocked fallopian tubes, or even structural abnormalities.

Peace Of Mind And Early Intervention

If you are experiencing any difficulties in conceiving, then fertility screening can provide you reassurance or detect issues early. This allows timely intervention and appropriate treatment.

Informed Decisions About Fertility

Fertility screening results can guide you in making informed decisions about your fertility treatment, like assisted reproductive technologies or in vitro fertilization.

Risks Of Fertility Screening

No doubt fertility screening is generally safe, but there are some risks that you should know about

Mild Discomfort

Some tests like HSG would cause cramping or discomfort during the procedure, so you should be mentally prepared.

Infection Or Bleeding

In rare cases, fertility screening tests involving the introduction of instruments or contrast dye might lead to infection or bleeding.

Injury To Other Organs

When you go for fertility screening tests like laparoscopy, a surgical procedure, it carries a small risk of injury to your nearby organs. Even though this is uncommon but you should know about this as a risk.

How Can You Start Preparing For Your Fertility Screening?

Preparing for fertility screening includes several steps, and you can check them out here.
You need to understand the risks and benefits. You must check out the pros and cons of all the tests that your doctor recommends.
At the same time, you must share your medical history, like any other pregnancy medical condition or surgery, with your doctor so that they can evaluate your situation in a better way.
You must follow your doctor’s instructions carefully, which might include timing tests with your menstrual cycle or fasting before some procedures.

What Can You Expect During Fertility Screening Tests?

The process of fertility screening tests will depend on the tests needed.

• At Home Testing, some tests like BBT charting and cervical mucus testing can be done at home easily, which makes it very easy for you to schedule the test accordingly.
• In Office Procedures, some tests like HSGs are typically performed in your doctor’s clinic, where your healthcare experts can ensure proper technique and accuracy.
• Laparoscopy;If laparoscopy is important, then you would be admitted to the hospital for the surgical procedure.

How Can You Improve Your Fertility Naturally?

Besides fertility screening, you can also take some proactive steps to improve your fertility.

• Maintain Healthy Weight.It is very important for you to achieve and maintain a healthy weight as it can positively impact your fertility. It is equally important for both partners.A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables whole grains is very important as they support your overall health and fertility.
• Engage In Regular Exercise: Regular physical activities can help you improve your reproductive health and also minimize stress levels.
• Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can negatively impact your fertility. It would be best if you quit smoking, and moderating your alcohol intake can improve your fertility prospects.
• High-stress levels can impact your hormonal balance and ovulation. You need to engage in stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or counseling.

Fertility screening is a valuable tool for you as a couple if you want to start a family. By undergoing different tests, you can get insights into productive health, and you can make informed decisions about family planning or fertility treatment. Besides going for fertility screening, you should also adopt a healthy lifestyle, as it can improve your fertility prospects. While some tests would carry minor risks, the benefits of fertility screening far outweigh any potential drawback