If you’re planning to delay pregnancy, avoid skipping these fertility tests!

In today’s world, may couples delay pregnancy for professional, educational or any other reasons. Fertility screening is apt for such couples to know about their chances of having a natural pregnancy in future. It’s never too early to get fertility tests, since any factor which can affect the chances of having a natural pregnancy in future is identified timely. This will help the couple to make a decision about planning their pregnancy. This is specifically important for couples who are above 30 years of age as age can contribute to natural decline in fertility.

Sometimes, lifestyle issues can delay conceiving.

Fertility tests before planning a pregnancy

Well, evaluation will include fertility tests and general health screenings for both male and female partners. Testing will include blood tests, ultrasound, and a few other investigations.

Dr Astha Gupta, IVF and Infertility consultant, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals (Noida and East Delhi), tells Health Shots about the important fertility tests every couple should go for.

Here are the fertility tests you need when you want to plan a delayed pregnancy:

1. Egg reserve

The first test which is done for assessment of ovarian reserve is Anti Mullerian Hormone. It is the best measure of the egg reserve of a patient. It tells about the quantity and quality of eggs present in the ovary of a female. So indirectly, it measures the reproductive potential of a woman. if your egg reserve is good, you can relax and plan pregnancy later. But if your egg reserve is less or borderline, your need to worry. Your doctor will discuss all the options available for you. You can freeze your eggs to preserve your fertility or you may plan a pregnancy early. Your doctor may not advise postponing pregnancy if your egg reserve is too less.

2. Transvaginal ultrasound

The next investigation in fertiliy screening is a transvaginal ultrasound. This will help your doctor to examine your ovaries and uterus. The number of eggs seen in your ovaries is an assessment of your reserve of eggs. If your egg count is good, you can have good future fertility and you can easily postpone your pregnancy. Also, an ultrasound will talk about any cyst present in the ovary.

If any cyst is present in your ovaries, it can be taken care of before your planning of pregnancy. Your doctor will also help you to understand whether this cyst is going to affect your future fertility or not. Similarly, a scan will help to find out if your uterus is normal or not. If some fibroid or any other abnormality is detected, it can be managed before you plan your pregnancy.

3. Semen analysis

The next investigation which is important is a semen analysis of your partner. It will let you know the sperm count and motility which can affect your fertility. If your partner’s semen parameters are not normal, the doctor will guide you about future management.

4. Haemoglobin

Get your routine haemoglobin test. If your doctor finds that your haemoglobin is less, you will be advised to take supplements and make dietary changes to improve your haemoglobin.

5. Thyroid and other tests

Your and your partner’s thyroid, blood sugar levels, and liver and kidney functions are checked so that your body is absolutely healthy and prepared for pregnancy. In case of any abnormality detected in thyroid or sugar levels, your doctor will prescribe you all necessary medications and make sure that you are prepared for pregnancy.

Pro tip for delayed pregnancy

These tests do not decide your fertility directly, but when you are planning to postpone pregnancy, this time can also be best utilized to prepare your body for future pregnancy planning. Some women also plan a pregnancy in 40s.

So whenever you are planning to postpone pregnancy, consult your doctor and get yourself investigated. According to your present fertility status, your doctor will guide you about your fertility in the future. The results of these fertility tests will help you to make an informed decision.