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Do you really need a fertility test in London? You might think I am in my late twenties or early thirties, so there is plenty of time. Or perhaps you are questioning whether a fertility test can actually influence how easily you will conceive. These are common beliefs, but fertility testing can reveal far more than you might expect.
Time plays a crucial role in fertility, and understanding your reproductive health early on can empower you to make informed decisions. Age is the primary factor influencing fertility, both in natural conception and when using assisted reproductive methods. If any issues could hinder your chances of pregnancy, it is better to identify them sooner rather than later.
If having children is a possibility for your future, fertility testing can guide your planning. It allows you to decide when to start trying for a baby and even consider saving for potential fertility treatments down the line.
As fertility specialists, we believe in being honest: assisted reproductive techniques help people every day who otherwise could not have children. However, the reality is that fertility has its limits, and time waits for no one.
Women over 35 frequently experience healthy, joyful pregnancies. However, the chances of certain complications, such as miscarriage, chromosomal abnormalities, high blood pressure, and gestational diabetes, increase with age, particularly in the 40s. For instance, a recent Norwegian study revealed that the risk of miscarriage nearly doubles between the ages of 35-39 and 40-44. Despite this, two-thirds of pregnancies in the 40-44 age group remain successful.
With a higher risk of complications, it is crucial to stay on top of prenatal appointments and focus on maintaining your health and well-being.
The insights gained from fertility testing vary based on the type of test you choose, as not all testing packages are the same.
At-home fertility tests, now widely available, measure indicators like Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), which helps assess ovarian reserve (the number of eggs you may have left). Some kits also measure other hormone levels, such as androgen hormones like testosterone, to detect potential issues like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). However, these limited tests can often be misleading when taken out of context.
Fertility involves more than just ovarian reserve. Conditions that significantly affect fertility, such as PCOS or structural issues in the womb, usually require an ultrasound for an accurate diagnosis. A more comprehensive fertility test in London, like one offered by clinics, includes a pelvic ultrasound to examine your antral follicles (the fluid-filled sacs containing eggs), uterus, and other reproductive organs.
In short, at-home tests can provide a false sense of security. Overlooking potential issues can cost you valuable time, and time is crucial for fertility. As experts in conception, we strongly advise seeking a fertility test in London at a reputable clinic. A proper evaluation includes thorough screening, detailed explanations, and results placed in context, helping you to make decisions about your future.
Experts highly recommend fertility testing in certain situations. For instance:
Ultimately, anyone who wants to plan for the future and take control of their reproductive health can benefit from fertility testing. Consulting a private gynaecologist in London can provide valuable insights and help get expert care.
To maximise your fertile window, skip basic methods like calendar tracking and use ovulation predictor kits instead. These kits are often the most reliable For those with regular cycles, as they detect a surge in luteinising hormone (LH) 24-36 hours before ovulation. Since sperm can live in the body for up to five days, it is wise to use kits that monitor oestrogen levels, which rise in the days before the LH surge.
However, if you have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) or low ovarian reserves, these kits might not be as accurate since your LH levels could be higher than average. In such cases, combine methods like tracking basal body temperature and checking cervical mucus. Your cervical mucus becomes slippery, watery, and stretchy before ovulation, indicating the best time to conceive.
Research suggests that a healthy diet rich in seafood, poultry, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can enhance fertility in women and improve semen quality in men. Choose organic fruits, vegetables, and poultry whenever possible. Incorporate omega-3-rich foods like salmon and sardines, but avoid mercury-heavy fish like tuna. Reduce red meat intake, avoid processed foods, and focus on meals made from whole foods.
Research indicates that taking higher doses of folic acid, beyond the recommended amount for preventing neural tube defects, lowers the risk of infertility and miscarriages and improves outcomes in fertility treatments. So, make sure you are taking your supplements.
Research increasingly points to the harmful effects of chemicals in plastics and fragranced products on fertility. While it is impossible to avoid these entirely, you can reduce exposure by avoiding microwave meals and choosing plant-based cleaning products.
Smoking and excessive drinking are both associated with reduced fertility. While the long-term effects of vaping are not as well-researched, e-cigarette aerosols contain toxins that may harm fertility. If you are trying to conceive, stop smoking or vaping and significantly reduce alcohol intake.
Although the exact link between stress and fertility is not fully understood, reducing stress can benefit your body and mind. Busy women, especially those over 35, can find relaxation challenging. Consider delegating more tasks at work or home and find activities that help you unwind, whether it is yoga, meditation, or a Netflix comedy session—anything that brings you to a relaxed state, minus late-night boozy outings.
Maintaining a healthy weight can positively influence your fertility. Being underweight may lead to a deficiency in hormones like oestrogen while being overweight is often linked to lower levels of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which regulates hormones like oestrogen. Aim for a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 to support reproductive health.
Exercise is a fantastic form of self-care, especially for women in their 30s. Not only does it improve cardiovascular health, but it can also reduce stress and help balance hormones. So, take out your yoga mat or go for a run!
Here are three facts:
If you are over 35 and have been trying for six months without success, consider fertility screening. If you are 40 or older, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as you decide to conceive. Fertility decreases with age, and early consultation can help identify any issues quickly, improving the chances of successful treatment.
Are you trying to conceive after 35? Is everything is on track? If you’re not ready to start a family yet, consider preserving your fertility through egg or embryo freezing. At The Top Gynaecologists in London, we offer exceptional fertility screening. Our team of leading fertility specialists uses cutting-edge technology, ensuring a thorough assessment to help you make informed decisions while time is on your side.
