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Best at-home fertility tests of 2025, according to experts
Best at-home fertility tests of 2025, according to experts

Yahoo

time28-01-2025

  • Health
  • Yahoo

Best at-home fertility tests of 2025, according to experts

According to the College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, female fertility begins to decline by age 30, and by 45, the chances of getting pregnant naturally are unlikely. But that doesn't mean you have to rush parenthood if you've crossed into your 30s. Advancements in science and technology have made it easier to understand and take control of your reproductive health. One such option is to use an at-home fertility test to track your hormone levels, ovulation, and peak fertility each month, all of which are helpful when trying to have a baby. Dr. Janet Choi, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and chief medical officer of Progyny, tells us, 'Fertility testing is especially beneficial for those with more fertility risk factors, such as painful or irregular periods, multiple unsuccessful attempts to get pregnant or who are over the age of 35.' To help better understand the various types of fertility kits on the market today, we spoke with a panel of fertility specialists, reproductive experts and board-certified physicians to get their insights and preferences when it comes to using at-home fertility tests. We then used their feedback to research more than 30 of the best at-home women's fertility tests, rating each based on what the test tracks, accuracy, testing type, cost and ease of use, among other variables. Here are our top picks for the best at-home fertility test kits. And of course, the market for at-home test kits is expanding, so it's worth noting you can also check out our top picks for best at-home STD tests and best at-home yeast infection tests, too. Best overall at-home fertility test kit More at-home fertility test kids we like for 2025 What to consider when buying an at-home fertility kit How we chose FAQs Meet our experts Update, Jan. 28, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our number one pick for the best overall at-home fertility test kit remains unchanged. (back to top) (back to top) With so many home fertility tests on the market, choosing the right one for you can feel like a daunting task. However, there are some key factors that can make the decision easier. Hormones tested Consider your primary reasons for testing and what information you're hoping to get out of it. If you want a full understanding of your current fertility markers, you may want to look for a test that measures multiple hormones, such as the Women's Health + Fertility Test, which covers 11 key hormones. However, if you're more interested in tracking your ovulation, a simple LH test, such as the Easy@Home Ovulation Test Strips, may be sufficient. Company reliability It's crucial to purchase test kits only from reputable companies. This is true of any product but especially for those that are health-related. According to fertility clinic owner Dr. Tara Brandner, doctor of nursing practice (DNP), FNP-C, it's a good idea to look for a company that specializes in fertility. 'This will ensure they have the correct testing bundled into the kit,' she says. Accuracy Brands sometimes make lofty claims about how accurate their tests are, so make sure to do your research. Have there been any clinical trials or peer-reviewed studies? Is the product FDA-approved? Are results tested in accredited labs and reviewed by medical professionals? Rapid results vs. lab results Some fertility tests – such as wearable devices and ovulation tests – are completed entirely at home with results ready instantly. Others, however, require mailing the test sample to a lab. Both have pros and cons – rapid tests offer a timely, nonintrusive way to determine your fertility window, but lab tests are generally more accurate and detailed. In the end, choose what works best for you. Cost Fertility testing prices can vary wildly, and costs can add up quickly no matter what. Consider your needs as well as your budget. Medical support provided Does the test kit company provide referrals, doctor consultations, or additional support? Fertility testing can be stressful, not to mention complicated, so it might be helpful to have extra medical guidance. (back to top) When determining the best fertility tests for at-home use, after consulting with our panel of experts on what to look for in a good fertility test, we looked at over 35 different at-home fertility tests and compared each based on hormones measured, collection method, out-of-pocket costs and insurance eligibility, time to results, customer reviews and each company's overall reputation. For tests requiring lab processing, we only considered companies that used CAP-accredited and CLIA-certified labs. Along with our above choices, we considered multiple fertility trackers, such as Tempdrop and Daysy, ovulation tests from companies like Clearblue and Pregmate, and lab-based hormone tests including those from Everlywell and LetsGetChecked. (back to top) Typically, experts recommend fertility testing if you've been trying to conceive for a year without success, but that doesn't mean you can't test yourself sooner. At-home tests may be a good idea if you're planning to start a family and want to understand your fertility, says Brandner. 'It also would be good for those looking for reassurance or information about their reproductive health,' she adds. Some insurance plans cover diagnostic fertility testing, but since at-home tests are used for screening purposes rather than to diagnose, the tests are typically not covered. However, many companies allow you to pay with an HSA or FSA account. Accuracy rates vary depending on the type of test: Blood tests are generally more accurate than urine tests, but many at-home tests are fairly accurate. However, it's important to note that no test is 100% accurate and at-home tests can be subject to user error, so it's essential to follow the test's directions. 'They are best used as a preliminary step or for informational purposes rather than a definitive assessment,' says Brandner. Dr. Dan Nayot, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist, agrees, but he cautions against user error. 'It's important to follow the directions, as all tests have limitations,' he says. However, when used correctly, he believes they can be a useful and accurate tool for screening. Although at-home fertility tests can provide valuable information, they aren't right for everyone. Those who have a known condition linked to infertility and are already working with their doctor should refrain, says Brandner. Taking an at-home test may result in unnecessary fear or anxiety, she explains, so it's best to continue working with your health care provider for treatment, more in-depth testing or fertility monitoring. Choi agrees. 'If you would not immediately seek additional care based on the results or if you think an 'abnormal' test would only heighten your anxiety, I advise not doing the test,' she tells me. In addition, she says that certain medications – such as hormonal birth control or estrogen supplements – can affect your hormones, making results less valid. (back to top) Dr. Dan Nayot, reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist Dr. Tara Brandner, DNP, FNP-C Dr. Janet Choi, board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and chief medical officer of Progyny Dr. Stephanie Hack, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Jill Purdie, board-certified ob-gyn and medical director of Northside Women's Specialists Aleece Fosnight, a board-certified physician assistant specializing in sexual medicine (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.

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