Finding out if you are fertile is important so if there is a problem it can be addressed as soon as possible. Here is a quick 12-Step program to assess your fertility.

  1. Check HIS sperm count first: Testing his sperm count should be the very first test done for fertility. Up to 50% of infertile couples have a male problem and the sperm count is easy and ensures him an orgasm too. When in doubt, the female may not be the one responsible for the fertility problems. The male sperm count should be tested before she gets tested to determine whether the problem lies with a lower sperm count.
  2. Track menstrual cycles:
    The cycle of your period is the best way to establish fertile times. If the cycle is regular, the ovulation time frame should generally be the same each month.
  3. Determine ovulation cycle: Ovulation could occur on the 10th, 12th or 14th day after the first day of the menstrual cycle. Using a calendar, track your ovulation and have sex during the most fertile times.
  4. Track lunar fertility cycles: The lunar fertility cycle is based on the moon phase at the time of your birth. Using an online lunar fertility phase calculator, the moon phase can be determined in the future. The lunar fertility day will be the same each month making conception all the easier.
  5. Observe cervical mucus: Cervical mucus can determine when the female is most fertile. By placing the finger into the vagina, the mucus can be observed. If the mucus looks like egg whites, the time to have sex is now.
  6. Have ovarian reserve testing: Ovarian reserve testing determines how many eggs are left to be released. This test can help to determine how fertile the female is and whether or not she will be able to conceive using her own eggs. If the ovarian reserve is too low for conception, an egg donor can be used in order to conceive.
  7. Have FSH tested: FSH stands for follicle stimulating hormone. This test will determine if the FSH is being secreted in the proper amounts to support conception. Without the proper levels of FSH, the follicle may not be releasing eggs at the right time or at all.
  8. Have estradiol tested: Estradiol is closely related to estrogen. This hormone regulates the reproductive cycle. If estradiol levels are low, the chance of conception is also low.
  9. Have LH tested: LH stands for luteinizing hormone. When the reproductive phase begins there is a sharp incline in the LH. This is referred to as the LH surge and the test is with an OPK, and ovulation predictor kit.
  10. Have prolactin tested: Female hormones need to be in balance in order for fertility to be optimal. Prolactin is one of the female hormones that works with other hormones to optimize fertility. Prolactin is most commonly known as the hormone that stimulates milk production, but it also works to aid in fertility.
  11. Have thyroid function tested: The thyroid gland can help or hinder fertility. If the gland if overproducing, the chance of miscarriage is higher.
  12. Have integrin tested: Integrin is responsible for helping the fertilized egg to attach to the uterus. If the integrin level is lower than normal, the egg may be fertilizing but not attaching to the uterus creating a viable pregnancy. There are therapies that can be used to increase integrin levels and help the egg to attach properly.