At-Home Fertility Tests vs. Lab Testing: What’s the Difference?

Understanding Which Options Will Work Best for You

The National Infertility Association estimates that approximately 1 in 8 couples experiences some sort of infertility while trying to conceive. Because of the prevalence of infertility, we recommend fertility checkups and conclusive testing for all couples looking to grow their family.

With the rising popularity of at-home fertility tests, it may seem easier than ever to check your fertility levels. While this may be a true statement, not all at-home fertility tests can be trusted – and it can be difficult to know which ones are reputable. As stated by GoodRX, even though at-home fertility tests may give you some insight regarding your fertility, the best way to receive a comprehensive prognosis is to visit a qualified healthcare provider.

To learn more about the difference between at-home fertility tests and the lab testing and services we provide at Palm Beach Fertility Center, don’t hesitate to contact us at 888.819.5177. We’re here to help you understand the best fertility options for your needs.

At-Home Tests

At-home fertility tests focus primarily on hormone levels. Depending on the test, you may be asked to send a saliva, blood, urine, or sperm sample by mail to a designated lab. While at-home tests boast the convenience of home delivery, the extra step of mailing over samples can take the ease out of the whole process. Additionally, mail travel can disturb the sample and cause discrepancies in the results. While some tests may be accurate in predicting ovulation, none of them can test fertility as accurately as one you undergo in a laboratory setting at a fertility center.

Tests such as ovulation predictors may provide results at home within a few minutes, while other more thorough analyses may take several weeks to receive back from the lab. While at-home fertility tests may be helpful if you want to get a head start checking your fertility, you shouldn’t rely on these results alone.

Lab Tests

At Palm Beach Fertility Center, you receive personalized care throughout every step of your fertility journey – something that simply can’t be achieved through at-home tests. Additionally, our tests are performed, collected, and analyzed by fertility specialists who are experts in the field. We can provide a thorough overview of your fertility potential and can suggest treatment methods if any issues are found in your or your partner’s tests.

Some common fertility checkup tests we offer and recommend include:

• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Testing
• Ultrasound Antral Follicle Count (AFC)
• Semen Analysis

We also offer tests that are designed specifically to detect infertility issues. If you’ve been struggling to conceive, these tests could give you a better idea of what exactly is causing the problem. Your fertility specialist may recommend any of the following:

• Blood tests
• Ultrasounds
• Uterine Imaging
• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
• FemVue
• Saline sonogram
• Semen analysis
• Infectious disease tests

In addition to these tests, we also recommend preconception testing to all couples hoping to eventually conceive. Preconception testing can assess your risk for inheritable genetic diseases before you even become pregnant. Through a small saliva or blood sample, our fertility specialists can run preconception tests on both you and your partner to determine the chances of passing down any genetic conditions from either parent. No matter where you are in your fertility journey, we believe that every couple should consider taking these tests.

Contact Us to Schedule Fertility Testing

At Palm Beach Fertility Center, we understand the emotional weight that comes with conception challenges. Our compassionate, caring, and qualified fertility specialists are here by your side to provide support, advice, and treatments to help you reach your fertility goals.

To get started with your first round of fertility tests, or to schedule a checkup, reach out to us online or give us a call at 888.819.5177. We’re here to answer any additional questions you may have and recommend the best options for your needs and goals.