Fertility problems affect one in seven couples in the United States, and many turn to an infertility specialist to find out how to improve their fertility rate with medication, injections or lifestyle changes. Though millions of couples struggle with increasing their fertility rate in hopes of conceiving each month, a fertility test can help determine if any progress has been made, and if lifestyle changes will actually improve the chances of conceiving.

However, most infertility doctors will not conduct fertility tests until a couple has been trying to get pregnant for at least twelve consecutive months. This makes it much more challenging for couples to continue their efforts to get pregnant and improve their chances of conceiving, but at-home fertility tests offer another option for many.

How At-Home Fertility Tests Work

At-home fertility tests such as Fertell are designed for both men and women who are struggling to conceive, and these kits are available without a prescription.

According to a press release about Fertell, “Fertell uses innovative screening technology to give couples valuable insight into the fertility of both partners before physician-based testing is appropriate. The kit includes both male and female tests that are clinically proven 95 percent accurate compared to standard laboratory tests. (Source: Fertell.com). The male Fertell test measures the concentration of motile sperm, and provides results in under 80 minutes. The female Fertell test measures the level of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in the urine, which is a key element of determining whether the woman can fertilze eggs in the ovaries. Female test results can be read in approximately 30 minutes.

Key Benefits of At-Home Fertility Tests

Since at-home fertility tests are available without a prescription, candidates who want to perform the test do not need to undergo any screening or pay extra fees. Some of the key benefits of at-home fertility tests include:

• Similar to those performed by an infertility doctor
• Safe and accurate
• Can be used by those who do not have health insurance benefits that cover fertility testing
• Available at most drugstores and pharmacy counters
• Low cost – the average retail price of Fertell kits is just $100 for both the male and female tests
• Fast results – men can obtain results in under 80 minutes, while women can get their results within 30 minutes. This is much faster than the average fertility test conducted at the doctor’s office.

Drawbacks of At-Home Fertility Tests

• Tests can only be performed on certain days of the month
• Results may not be as accurate for candidates undergoing reproductive therapy
• Tests do not reveal information about the health of the semen or fallopian tubes

No matter how long you and your partner have been trying to conceive, you may be able to gauge your progress with an at-home fertility test.

Learn more about fertility screenings and options from an infertility specialist in your area so you can make the best decision for your individual situation.