Whether you’re trying to get pregnant, considering parenthood or just curious about your reproductive health, fertility testing can provide useful information. Although you can see your GP or a fertility specialist, there are also at-home testing options available.
While the majority of infertility evaluations require in-person exams and testing, hormone testing and semen analysis can be done from home. However, the accuracy of these tests varies. Choose a test that is supported by published studies and CE or UKCA marked, with samples analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory working to ISO 15189 standards. At-home fertility testing options through Carrot have all been vetted for quality.
Different at-home fertility tests will come with different testing panels and instructions, but here’s an overview of what you can expect. Check with individual testing providers for specifics.
Are at-home fertility tests accurate?
There are a range of at-home testing options available that can measure a variety of fertility factors, including specific hormones, semen quality and more. The accuracy of these tests can depend on a person’s health history, when the tests are completed and where the samples are analysed. When selecting your at-home test, research the different options and choose a test that is registered with the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), supported by scientific studies and analysed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory. Different at-home fertility tests may measure different biomarkers and come with different panels, so it’s important to determine what you’re most interested in gaining insight into.
How to test your fertility at home
Most at-home fertility tests can be purchased online. If you’re a Carrot member, you can also choose from a vetted selection of at-home options in your Carrot account. But no matter where you purchase your at-home test or what test you choose, most tests follow a similar process. First you’ll collect a small sample of blood, urine or semen, send it to a lab for testing and get the results. You’ll then have the opportunity to consult with a healthcare professional about your results – whether that’s your own GP or an expert provided through your at-home test. Many choose these at-home tests for the convenience, ease and flexibility of learning more about their health without ever leaving their home
Fertility testing preparation
Hormone testing
Certain hormones can be masked by hormonal contraception, so it's recommended to come off contraception for one to two months and wait until a certain day (e.g. cycle day three) of your menstrual cycle before testing.
Semen analysis
To prepare for a semen analysis, an individual should refrain from ejaculating for a certain period of time (e.g. two to five days) before testing.
What to expect during fertility testing
Hormone testing
At-home fertility tests typically measure ovarian reserve hormones such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Tests usually include all necessary shipping materials for returning your sample(s).
AMH is released by the cells that line follicles, so AMH levels are directly correlated to the number of follicles found in the ovaries. These levels decline with age. Low levels of AMH indicate a lower number of follicles and a lower ovarian reserve.
FSH is responsible for stimulating the growth of ovarian follicles and mature eggs during ovulation. Unusually high levels of FSH can be a sign of poor ovarian reserve. Low levels can indicate a problem with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus, two regions of the brain that play important roles in ovulation. It’s important to check FSH along with oestradiol (E2) because high levels of oestradiol can suppress FSH and muddle test results.
Semen analysis
These fertility tests typically evaluate semen parameters such as semen volume, sperm concentration, motility (how well the sperm move) and morphology (size, shape and appearance). Some at-home sperm test providers will also look at genetic health and offer to freeze and store samples. Testers provide their sample in a collection cup or vial and use the included shipping materials to return it to the provider.
Follow the instructions included with the test carefully to ensure the most accurate results.
What to expect after fertility testing
Once the results are back, some companies will connect you with a medical professional, such as a GP or specialist nurse, to help interpret them. In other cases, the results may be accompanied by easy-to-read explanations of the findings. Still, you may want to talk to your doctor about your results.
Are any 'abnormal' results from at-home fertility tests cause for concern? Most clinicians will repeat the test to validate the results as one unusual reading doesn't necessarily mean that something is wrong. It's best to confirm any findings with your GP or a fertility specialist before considering next steps.
At-home fertility testing through Carrot
At Carrot, we want to make fertility care accessible and affordable for everyone. We have a number of resources to support you, from at-home fertility testing to help finding the right provider.
Carrot offers UK members a vetted selection of at-home fertility testing options through the Carrot Collective, a curated marketplace of clinically vetted products and services that help members improve their fertility and hormonal health.
