FAQs on fertility tests
When should I see a fertility specialist?
Dr. Alejandra García-Villalba answers: As a general rule, it is recommended to go to a fertility specialist after one year of unsuccessful pregnancy search, if you are under 35 years old. If you are over 35, it is advisable to seek help after six months. In cases of specific medical history, such as irregular menstrual cycle, previous miscarriages, endometriosis or known fertility problems, prior consultation is recommended.
At Vida Fertility, we are ready to guide you at the right time.
When should I run these fertility tests?
Dr. Alejandra García-Villalba answers:
Fertility testing is recommended if you have been trying to conceive for some time without success.
In women, they can be performed at any time during the menstrual cycle, although some specific tests, such as hormone screening, must be done on certain days of the cycle. For men, sperm analysis can be done at any time.
Are these tests necessary before starting assisted reproduction treatment?
Dr. Alejandra García-Villalba responds:
Yes, the basics are essential. Fertility tests allow us to understand the cause of infertility and personalise treatment.
For example, knowing your ovarian reserve, semen quality or possible uterine problems will help us decide whether a treatment such as artificial insemination, IVF or egg donation is the best option for you.
Is fasting or prior preparation required for fertility tests?
Dr. Alejandra García-Villalba answers:
Most fertility tests do not require fasting. However, for more specific tests such as prolactin or homocysteine, fasting may be required. For men, the seminogram requires sexual abstinence for 2 to 3 days before collecting the sample.
Do fertility tests detect all causes of infertility?
Dr. Alejandra García-Villalba answers:
Although fertility tests are very comprehensive, they do not always detect all causes of infertility. Some may be more complex or multifactorial, such as certain immunological or genetic problems.
In fact, there are approximately 20% of the causes of infertility of unknown origin.
For this reason, at Vida Fertility we have advanced technology and a multidisciplinary team that allows us to deal with even the most complex cases.
When do I receive the results of my fertility tests?
Dr. Alejandra García-Villalba replies:
The time depends on the test. For example, the results of a semen analysis can be available in a few hours, while hormone tests usually take between 24 and 48 hours.
More complex tests, such as genetic studies or karyotype, can take several weeks. At Vida Fertility, we make sure to streamline the process so you get your results as soon as possible and can make informed decisions quickly.
How do I know if I am sterile or not?
Through the study of basic tests (amh, basal hormones, seminogram, basal ultrasound, urological examination), as well as medical assessment. You can read more information on how to know if you are fertile in this article.
What is the test for genetic compatibility?
When a couple decides to start a family, one of the most important aspects is to ensure that the baby is born healthy, avoiding the transmission of genetic mutations that could have been identified through a previous genetic compatibility test. The road to safe parenthood can be paved by the Carrier Genetic Test (CGT), also known as carrier genetic testing.
Even if prospective parents have no symptoms of any disease, most people carry at least one genetic mutation that could cause serious conditions in their children. If both parents carry mutations in the same gene, there is a 25% chance that the baby will inherit the disease.
With CGT, it is possible to perform a thorough genetic evaluation to identify potential risks and, if necessary, opt for solutions such as testing embryos for that mutation or gamete donation to ensure as far as possible a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby
