Doctors Say: Do Not Defer Fertility Check-Up – Here’s Why It Matters
Fertility is often taken for granted—until it becomes a concern. In today’s fast-paced world, many couples postpone childbearing for career, financial, or personal reasons. But doctors are now warning: don’t delay your fertility check-up.
Whether or not you’re ready for a baby, a fertility assessment helps you understand your reproductive health. Early diagnosis of potential issues can drastically improve your chances of conception when you decide to try.
Why Are Doctors Urging Early Fertility Screening?
More women and men are facing fertility challenges than ever before. In India alone, studies show that nearly 1 in 6 couples experience some form of infertility.
Doctors say that early check-ups help identify silent conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, or low sperm count—many of which go unnoticed until it’s too late.
When Should You Get a Fertility Check-Up?
Here are general guidelines:
- Under 35: If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12+ months without success
- Over 35: If you’ve been trying for 6+ months
- Planning for future: Even if not actively trying, a preconception assessment is wise if you’re over 30
- Irregular periods, painful sex, or hormonal issues: Get evaluated sooner
What Happens During a Fertility Evaluation?
For women, doctors typically check:
- Ovarian reserve: Blood tests like AMH and ultrasound for antral follicle count
- Ovulation: Hormonal testing and cycle tracking
- Fallopian tubes: HSG scan to check for blockages
- Uterus: Scans to detect fibroids, polyps, or abnormalities
For men, tests include:
- Semen analysis: Sperm count, motility, and morphology
- Hormone tests: Testosterone and FSH levels
- Ultrasound: To rule out varicocele or infections
Benefits of Early Fertility Screening
1. Early Diagnosis
Detects conditions like low ovarian reserve, thyroid disorders, or tubal blocks before they impact chances of pregnancy.
2. More Time and Options
Early screening opens up options like egg freezing, IUI, or IVF when you still have a high chance of success.
3. Prevent Emotional Burnout
Knowing your fertility status can reduce anxiety and help you make informed decisions without panic.
4. Helps Single Individuals Too
Even if you're single or not ready, understanding your reproductive timeline can guide lifestyle and health choices.
Common Fertility Myths That Delay Check-Ups
Myth: “I’m healthy, so I must be fertile.”
Truth: Fertility doesn’t always align with general health. Silent conditions can exist without symptoms.
Myth: “Only women need fertility check-ups.”
Truth: Male factors contribute to 40–50% of infertility cases. Men should also get evaluated.
Myth: “I’ll wait till I’m ready for a baby.”
Truth: Waiting too long can reduce options. Early information is power—even if you’re not ready yet.
Doctors Speak Out: Why Timing Matters
Dr. Neha Sharma (Fertility Specialist, Delhi): “Women often come in their late 30s when they’re ready, but by then, egg reserve and quality are already low. A simple AMH test in your 20s or early 30s can give you a much clearer roadmap.”
Dr. Arvind Patel (Urologist, Mumbai): “Men ignore semen health until it’s too late. Heat, stress, pollution, and tight clothing can silently impact sperm count. Regular check-ups help maintain reproductive health.”
Should You Freeze Your Eggs?
Many women opt for egg freezing to preserve fertility if they’re not ready for motherhood yet. Ideal age for egg freezing is between 30–35, before significant decline in egg quality.
Freezing now gives you better odds later—especially if you plan to have kids after 35.
How Much Does a Fertility Check-Up Cost in India?
Basic fertility testing costs can range between:
- For women: ₹2,000–₹8,000 depending on tests (AMH, ultrasound, hormone panel)
- For men: ₹1,000–₹3,000 for semen analysis and hormonal tests
Advanced diagnostics like HSG, laparoscopy, or DNA fragmentation may cost more but are often covered partially by insurance or fertility packages.
Internal Resources You Might Find Helpful
- Can You Extend the Life of Your Reproductive System?
- What Is IVF? Step-by-Step Process
- Mental Health and Fertility Challenges
FAQs About Fertility Screening
Q1. Does a fertility check-up hurt?No. Most tests are blood-based or involve ultrasounds. Procedures like HSG may cause mild discomfort but are brief.
Q2. Can I get tested even if I’m not trying to conceive?Absolutely. In fact, it's wise to do so early to understand your reproductive health and plan ahead.
Q3. What if my results show low fertility?Low doesn’t mean zero. It means you may need to act sooner, consider treatment, or explore fertility preservation options.
Q4. How often should I get my fertility checked?If your first test is normal, repeat every 2–3 years or sooner if symptoms change. If you have concerns, consult earlier.
Q5. Can lifestyle impact fertility?Yes. Smoking, alcohol, lack of exercise, obesity, stress, and poor diet all reduce fertility in both men and women.