World IVF Day: Why more young couples are turning into fertility testing early

Younger couples are thinking about fertility much sooner than earlier. Once considered a taboo subject or something to consider after a couple of years of trying with no success, fertility is now openly discussed (Image: Pexels)

In the last few years, there has been a shift in the way that young couples think about fertility. Once considered a taboo subject or something to consider after a couple of years of trying with no success, fertility is now openly discussed much earlier, at times, even before marriage!

The timing of this discussion among couples likely reflects evolving societal norms, more awareness of reproductive health, and the desire to plan their lives in an informed and proactive way. Regardless of personal choices, career goals, or medical questions, this trend represents a more empowered generation of young people who confidently want to determine their reproductive futures.

According to Dr. Pooja Trehan, Consultant pathologist and zonal chief of labs - Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, Metropolis Healthcare Ltd, here's why early fertility testing is a norm among young couples

1. Fertility no longer a taboo:

In today’s world, where the language of equality, choice, and empowerment is reshaping every domain, fertility is no longer left to chance or stigma. Long gone are the days when couples would feel embarrassed discussing these topics, and any conversations or information related to fertility would be seen as a major taboo.

2. Pre-Marital discussions about parenthood:

With the changes in trends and mindsets, couples discuss fertility, the age at which they want to consider having kids, or if they even want to have kids before marriage. There are so many conversations wanting to learn more about their fertility, some to ease anxieties, some out of curiosity, and others as a preventative measure for a better future and financial planning.

3. Health conditions influencing fertility awareness:

Many young women are struggling and managing conditions like thyroid disorders, obesity, PCOS, and endometriosis, some owing to genetics but mostly as a part of lifestyle disorders. These are the women who have already seen their friends and family suffer from similar disorders and, in turn, struggle to conceive. Hence, couples in similar situations prefer to make informed decisions and want to understand their timelines, whether it’s related to delaying parenthood, freezing eggs, or starting early.

4. Men actively participating in fertility conversations:

It’s heartening to see that not only women but even men are engaging in such conversations, getting tested early for their sperm count, sperm motility, and wanting to be informed about the lifestyle factors that affect fertility, such as poor sleep, stress, alcohol, smoking, or drug abuse.

5. Diagnostic tools offering clarity:

Simple tests like hormone profiles (oestrogen, LH, FSH, prolactin), AMH (to assess ovarian reserves), blood sugar levels, thyroid profiles, semen analysis, along with pelvic ultrasounds, offer critical insights into fertility status. At times, the results are assuring, and the couples know that they have time in their hands to plan. Other times, these tests open doors to early intervention such as lifestyle changes, ovulation induction, egg freezing, or opting for the right kind of assisted reproductive techniques, commonly known as IVF.

6. Women taking charge of reproductive futures:

Recently, a 32-year-old unmarried woman, flourishing in a high-paced corporate role, opted for fertility testing to understand her reproductive health. Her decision reflects a growing trend among women who are taking charge of their reproductive futures through proactive fertility assessment. Whether you are occupied with your career or simply want to enjoy your personal space and quality time with your partner, waiting to have children is normal. In such cases, getting a fertility test is a rational choice to mentally, physically, and financially plan for your future.

7. Targeted testing for recurrent pregnancy loss:

Couples with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss or unsuccessful pregnancies are increasingly being advised to undergo targeted fertility assessments and genetic testing. These evaluations help uncover potential underlying causes, ranging from hormonal imbalances and anatomical abnormalities to genetic mutations and chromosomal anomalies, that may not be identified through routine investigations.

8. Advanced testing techniques improving success rates:

Advanced diagnostic tools such as karyotyping, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), thrombophilia screening, and recurrent pregnancy loss panels can provide critical insights into embryo quality, implantation failure, and hereditary conditions. These advances in testing are empowering couples with better clarity, reducing the emotional and financial burden of trial-and-error approaches, and improving their chances of achieving a successful, healthy pregnancy.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.