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Prepare for a Smooth Journey with Fertility Screening
Embarking on the journey to parenthood can be both exciting and overwhelming. For many individuals and couples, taking proactive steps by opting for a fertility screening offers valuable insights into reproductive health and helps identify any challenges early. Whether you are actively trying to conceive or planning for the future, fertility screening is the first key step toward achieving your dreams of starting a family.
Fertility screening assesses vital aspects such as hormone levels, reproductive organ function, and overall health—critical factors that influence conception. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare will ensure your screening experience is smooth and stress-free. Along with preparation, understanding what the screening process entails will give you peace of mind.
Understand Why Fertility Screening is Important
Before diving into preparations, it is important to understand the significance of fertility screening. The following steps will guide you through everything you need to know.
A. Evaluate Your Medical History
- Discuss Pre-Existing Conditions: Chronic illnesses like diabetes or thyroid disorders can impact fertility. Inform your healthcare provider of any such conditions during the consultation.
- Review Medications and Supplements: Some medications may affect hormone levels or reproductive function. Ensure that you discuss any prescriptions or supplements with your doctor.
- Identify Genetic Factors Affecting Fertility: If there is a history of genetic disorders in your family, additional screening may be needed to rule out risks to your fertility or future pregnancy.
B. Make Lifestyle Adjustments
- Focus on Healthy Weight Management: Studies indicate that being underweight or overweight can cause hormonal imbalance, reducing fertility.
- Quit Smoking, Alcohol, and Recreational Drugs: Tobacco, alcohol, and drugs can harm reproductive health. Eliminating these habits improves the chances of conception and protects future pregnancies.
- Incorporate a Fertility-Boosting Diet and Exercise Routine: Foods rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins enhance fertility. Incorporate regular physical activity, but avoid excessive exercise, which could disrupt hormone levels.
C. Plan for Stress-Free Scheduling
- Time Tests According to Menstrual Cycle or Sperm Health: Fertility screening for women may involve hormone tests at specific points in the menstrual cycle. Men should avoid sexual abstinence for 2-7 days before a semen analysis for optimal results.
- Prepare Necessary Paperwork and Medical Records: Bringing prior medical records ensures your healthcare provider has a complete understanding of your health. Prepare insurance documents if fertility screening coverage is available.
What to Expect During Your Fertility Screening
A typical fertility screening includes several diagnostic tests tailored to your unique needs. For women, blood tests measure key hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), which help assess ovarian reserve. Ultrasound scans are also used to examine the uterus and ovaries, looking for potential issues like cysts, polyps, or fibroids.
Men undergo semen analysis to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology. Blood tests may also be conducted to evaluate testosterone levels or check for infections that could impair fertility.
Book an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals
Preparing for a fertility screening is a crucial step in your journey toward parenthood. Being proactive about your reproductive health allows you to identify potential challenges early and explore solutions with confidence. At Gleneagles Hospitals, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way with our comprehensive fertility screening package.
If you have questions about fertility screening, get in touch with us to book an appointment at your nearest Gleneagles Hospitals to receive professional advice to help kickstart your health journey. To make an appointment for health screening, please contact the health screening centre at the Gleneagles Hospitals nearest to you.
