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Fertility tests monitor hormone levels and sperm count. They may inform people about their reproductive health and how to improve fertility. Males and females can get at-home fertility tests online.
Approximately
However, these tests should not replace an appointment with a doctor — ideally, a fertility specialist. A test from a specialist can tell whether hormone levels or sperm count, shape, and motility are within typical ranges. It is important to interpret the test results with the assistance of a healthcare professional.
The
In this article, learn more about the best at-home fertility tests for males and females.
Women’s tests
- Best overall test for females: Ro Modern Fertility Ovulation Test | Skip to Review
- Best comprehensive range of tests: LetsGetChecked Home Female Fertility Test | Skip to Review
- Best subscription fertility test: Everlywell Women’s Fertility Test | Skip to Review
- Best fertility test with an app: Mira Plus Starter Kit | Skip to Review
- Best wearable fertility test: Ava Fertility Bracelet | Skip to Review
Men’s tests
- Best overall test for males: Ro Sperm Kit | Skip to Review
- Best sperm storage fertility test: Legacy Sperm Analysis | Skip to Review
- For semen analysis fertility test: Fellow Semen Analysis Kit | Skip to Review
- Best basic test: LabCorp Men’s Rapid Fertility Test | Skip to Review
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.
At-home fertility tests for males generally check sperm count. They usually require a semen sample, which a person may have to send to a lab for analysis.
Factors that can influence male fertility
- sperm morphology and motility, which refer to the sperm’s shape and ability to move
- smoking, drinking alcohol, and using recreational drugs
- cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy
- hormone disorders, such as atypical pituitary gland and hypothalamus function
- genetic conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome and Y-chromosome microdeletion
- a range of other health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cystic fibrosis
Fertility tests for females may check follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Some tests also measure the levels of other hormones that can affect fertility, such as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones also play important roles in puberty, ovulation, and pregnancy.
Learn more about female sex hormones.
Having too much FSH can indicate a decline in ovarian function, which
Tests that check LH levels can tell people when they ovulate. Having sex before and during ovulation increases the likelihood of becoming pregnant. LH levels surge about
Ovulation tests, sometimes called ovulation predictor kits (OPKs), can help someone determine when their fertility is at its peak. Another name for this period is the “fertile window.” If a person uses these tests regularly and the result is never positive, it can indicate that ovulation is not happening.
Learn more about at-home ovulation tests.
Most at-home female fertility tests involve urinating on a test strip and waiting for a result to appear. However, others require a blood sample, which a person can produce at home with a finger prick. The testing kits provide instructions and tools.
Medical News Today’s methodology
MNT chooses at-home tests that meet the following criteria where possible:
- Laboratories: MNT will select companies that process test samples in
CLIA-certified labs. This means that they follow state and federal regulations. - Budget: MNT chooses at-home tests that are suitable for a wide range of budgets.
- Privacy: MNT includes companies that offer robust and transparent privacy measures, such as data protection and discreet packaging.
- Test result communication: MNT selects companies that inform customers when they will receive their test results and whether they will receive them via email, app, or phone.
- Further support: MNT will indicate whether a company offers further support, such as a follow-up phone consultation with a doctor to discuss test results.
Below, we list the five best at-home fertility tests for females.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more.
Best overall test for females: Ro Modern Fertility Ovulation Test
- Price: $16 for a one-time purchase,or $15 per month
- Sample type: urine test strip
- Results time: 5 minutes
This is a daily test that allows users to find out their two most fertile days.
Individuals urinate into a cup and dip in the provided test strip for 10 seconds. A person lets this sit for 5 minutes before matching the color of the test strip to the color bar to find their LH concentration.
According to the manufacturers, LH levels are higher just before ovulation. Therefore, the higher these levels, the closer to ovulating a person is.
Using the modern fertility app, a person can log the test result using their camera. After a few months of logging information, including their menstrual cycle, the app may help someone predict their most fertile days.
Pros
- the test comes with an app
- people can get results within 5 minutes
- color-coded results are easy to interpret
- the app gradually builds a picture of a person’s fertility window
Cons
- people must test daily to get the most accurate results
- they must also try to test in the afternoon
- the app is currently only available for iOS devices
Best comprehensive range of tests: LetsGetChecked Home Female Fertility Test
- Price: from $99
- Sample type: finger prick
- Results time: within 2–5 days of receiving the sample
LetsGetChecked offers three female fertility tests:
- a progesterone test for $99
- a female hormone test that checks the levels of several female sex hormones, including FSH and LH, costing $139
- an ovarian reserve test that can indicate the functioning of the ovaries, which costs $139
All of the company’s tests require a finger-prick blood sample, and it gives results within 2–5 days of receiving the sample for analysis.
LetsGetChecked also features a calculator on its website to help people tell when in their menstrual cycle to take each test. Prices vary depending on the type of test.
Learn more about LetsGetChecked.
Pros
- provides a cycle calculator to determine when to take a test
- offers three female fertility tests
- people can get their results within 2–5 days
- there is medical support 24-7
Cons
- two tests cost over $130
- LetsGetChecked does not combine tests for one comprehensive panel
- the company does not offer male fertility tests
Best subscription fertility test: Everlywell Women’s Fertility Test
- Price: $149
- Sample type: finger prick
- Results time: within 5–7 business days of receiving the sample
This test checks the levels of five hormones, including LH, FSH, and thyroid stimulating hormone. The results may indicate whether it would help to speak with a doctor about possible health issues that may be affecting fertility.
To use the test, a person needs to use a finger prick to collect a blood sample. After sending this sample to Everlywell’s lab, a person will receive their results within 5–7 days on a smartphone or another device. The company pays the shipping costs.
The company states that this test may not be suitable for people on hormonal contraception or HRT, as the test only measures the hormones present in the body. These therapies can change the levels of hormones.
Everlywell offers this test as a one-time purchase or as part of a subscription.
Learn more about the Everlywell brand.
Pros
- people can save money by subscribing
- many reviewers found the test easy to use
- provides insight into the hormones affecting menstruation, ovulation, and fertility
Cons
- may be unsuitable for those on hormonal birth control or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
- few online reviews
- there is no ongoing medical support available
- some buyers found the results difficult to understand
Best fertility test with an app: Mira Plus Starter Kit
- Price: from $199
- Sample type: urine test strip
- Results time: around 21 minutes
Mira offers this test as a way to help track ovulation and fertility. The test involves immersing a wand tool in urine and placing it in an analyzer, which sends the results to the person’s smartphone through an app.
Learn more about the best fertility tracking apps.
This test checks the levels of hormones that may indicate ovulation. Mira says that people may use this test up to 20 times per menstrual cycle for the best results.
The company offers a 1-year warranty on analyzer devices and a 90-day money-back guarantee on wands.
Learn more about the Mira Fertility Tracker.
Pros
- the company states this device is suitable for those with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- it does not involve providing a blood sample
- the app uses artificial intelligence to provide personalized information about fertility
- the Analyzer syncs automatically to the app
Cons
- the company recommends testing up to 20 times per cycle
- the test is very expensive
- some buyers could not use the tests as regularly as they wanted due to the price
Best wearable fertility test: Ava Fertility Bracelet
- Price: from $279
- Sample type: physiological signals
- Results time: overnight
Ava offers a wearable bracelet to help a person track their 5-day fertility window. The company notes that its device can show the window up to 4 days sooner than hormone-based tests.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared this wearable device, meaning it may receive FDA approval in the future.
The bracelet comes with three different purchase options.
The basic option includes free shipping, access to a tracking app and online community, and the wearable tracker.
The other plans offer some additional perks, including a money-back guarantee if a person does not become pregnant within 12 or 6 months, depending on the level of the plan.
Learn more about the Ava Fertility Tracker.
Pros
- the company offers a money-back guarantee if a person does not become pregnant within a certain time frame
- it is FDA cleared
- it collects data while a person sleeps
- it also tracks sleep and stress
Cons
- the bracelet is not waterproof or water-resistant
- it is very expensive
- the money-back guarantee does not apply to the Basic bundle
Below are four of the best at-home fertility tests for males.
Best overall test for males: Ro Sperm Kit
- Price: from $199
- Sample type: semen
- Results time: within 48 hours
Ro offers sperm testing kits. A person collects a sample at home, sends it to the lab for analysis, and receives the results within 48 hours.
The company can store several vials of sperm for free for up to 3 years, depending on which kit a person purchases. It states that each kit is tamper-proof, requiring two-factor security authentication to view the test results.
People can use health savings accounts (HSAs) and flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for all Ro’s tests. The company offers three tests, each of which provides a different level of analysis.
Pros
- the company stores semen for up to 3 years, depending on the kit
- storage is free for up to 3 years
- people get their reports within 48 hours
- HSA and FSA eligible
Cons
- people cannot test their sperm unless they pay for sperm storage
- additional storage years cost $149 a year
- sample withdrawal costs $299.99
- people cannot use lube when providing the sample
Best sperm storage fertility test: Legacy Sperm Analysis
- Price: from $295
- Sample type: semen
- Results time: within 48 hours
This test includes a full-spectrum analysis of sperm count, vitality, concentration, and morphology.
A person collects the specimen at home and sends it to the company with prepaid shipping. Legacy offers complementary storage of sperm with some of its testing kits. People can purchase additional storage for a monthly or yearly fee.
Legacy offers three testing kits. The For Today kit analyzes one sample, offers short-term complementary sperm storage, and is FSA-eligible. The For Tomorrow kit analyzes two samples, while the Forever kit analyzes three samples and offers lifetime sperm storage.
Pros
- offers sperm testing with optional sperm storage
- one kit offers lifetime storage
- people can get their results in 48 hours
- HSA and FSA eligible
Cons
- sperm storage costs $14.95 per month
- the kits are very expensive
- does not ship to Puerto Rico, Alaska, or Hawaii
Best semen analysis fertility test: Fellow Semen Analysis Kit
- Price: $189
- Sample type: semen
- Results time: the company promises quick results, but does not specify a time frame
Fellow offers an at-home semen analysis kit. The company claims that its system and labs are the only ones that exceed FDA standards.
A person needs to get a sample at home and then send it to the lab. The results come back quickly and include various information related to sperm health, including:
- number of sperm per milliliter (mL) of fluid
- number of sperm swimming
- their shape
- how many sperm cells are present in total
- how well the sperm are swimming
Once the results are in, a person can review them on their personal device using the app.
Pros
- reportedly exceeds FDA standards for semen analysis methods
- the company claims it is a doctor-approved test
- the app makes results easy to understand
Cons
- the company charges $140 per year for sperm storage
- it is unavailable in New York and Rhode Island
- people cannot use lube when providing a sample
Best basic fertility test: LabCorp Rapid Fertility Test
- Price: $199
- Sample type: semen
- Results time: 30 minutes
This FDA-cleared test allows individuals to test at home and see their results within 30 minutes.
A person should wait 2–7 days without ejaculating before they collect their sample. It measures sperm concentration and semen volume.
A person can determine their results based on the following:
- Optimal (above 55 mL): Means the individual may conceive quicker.
- Moderate (between 15 and 55 mL): May take longer for individuals to conceive.
- Low (15 mL or below): May be at risk for infertility.
Pros
- a person can test from home without sending the sample to a lab
- it is less expensive than other options
- results are available in 30 minutes
- it is FDA cleared
Cons
- it does not include sperm storage
- people cannot ejaculate for up to a week before providing a sample
- it does not provide very in-depth analysis
- people must be 18 or over to use the test
The following table compares the at-home fertility tests in this article.
Sample type | HSA/FSA accepted | Claimed accuracy | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Ro Modern Fertility Ovulation Test | urine test strip | yes | 99% | • $16 for a one-time purchase • $15 per month |
LetsGetChecked Home Female Fertility Test | finger prick | no | uses certified labs | from $99 |
Everlywell Women’s Fertility Test | finger prick | yes | uses certified labs | $149 |
Mira Plus Starter Kit | urine test strip | yes | 99% | from $199 |
Ava Fertility Bracelet | physiological signals | eligible | 99% | from $279 |
Ro Sperm Kit | semen | no | uses certified labs | from $199 |
Legacy Sperm Analysis | semen | varies | uses certified labs | from $295 |
Fellow Semen Analysis Kit | semen | no | uses certified labs | $189 |
LabCorp Rapid Fertility Test | semen | yes | not stated | $199 |
Choosing the best at-home fertility test can be difficult when so many options are available.
People should consider what information they want from their tests. If a person wants insight into their ovulation patterns, they should choose a test that regularly and accurately tracks the changes in the body that signal ovulation.
Understanding hormone levels is another important part of learning about fertility. For those who want to determine whether their hormone levels are optimal for fertility, a test that offers extensive hormone test panels is advisable.
Males will need to use a sperm test and can consider whether they want to store their sperm afterward. Many sperm tests offer storage, but it can be expensive.
People may wish to speak with a doctor before choosing an at-home fertility test, as in-person testing may be more beneficial for some individuals.
While at-home tests are more convenient and may be more affordable than in-person testing, they may not always be the best choice. Below, we look at how at-home fertility testing compares with in-person testing.
At-home testing | In-person testing |
---|---|
People can collect samples at home, often on their own schedule. | Some people may not feel comfortable providing samples in a clinic or doctor’s office. |
At-home tests may not be as accurate as tests from clinics. They often provide estimates. | In-person tests provide accurate figures over estimates. |
At-home tests are not often part of a person’s insurance, but they may be more affordable for those without cover. | Insurance can cover in-person testing. They may be more expensive for those without insurance. |
At-home tests cannot diagnose underlying conditions. | People can work with the testing clinician to diagnose fertility issues. |
At-home tests may not work for people with PCOS or other conditions affecting fertility. | People can work with a doctor to get appropriate tests if they have an existing condition. |
In some cases, making certain lifestyle changes may boost fertility. The
- quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol, and refraining from using recreational drugs, if applicable
- maintaining a moderate weight
- taking a prenatal vitamin with folic acid, the synthetic version of the B vitamin folate, for at least 1 month before trying to conceive and throughout pregnancy
- managing or treating any health conditions, such as sexually transmitted infections, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and high blood pressure
The CDC also describes several options for people who have difficulty conceiving. These
- assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization
- clomiphene citrate, a medication that may help with ovulation
- metformin, a drug that doctors usually prescribe to treat diabetes but may be beneficial for people with PCOS or insulin resistance
People
If a fertility test indicates that conceiving might be challenging, it is best to contact a doctor. They can perform additional testing and recommend what steps to take next.
Additionally, some people may wish to speak with a doctor before trying to conceive.
Below, we provide answers to some common questions about these tests.
What are the signs of infertility in women?
According to the
These symptoms include no periods, irregular periods, endometriosis, and a history of pelvic inflammatory disease.
Other signs are a suspected or known history of uterine or tubal conditions, pregnancy loss, and any treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation.
What are the signs of infertility in men?
According to the
These symptoms include having sexual dysfunction, such as erectile dysfunction, and a history of infertility with another partner.
Other signs include hernia surgery, chemotherapy, and a history of testicular injury.
How much do at-home fertility tests cost?
Prices vary depending on the company and the sophistication of the test. People can expect to pay over $100 for a test. Often, simple test strips cost the least, while kits that require a person to mail samples to labs cost more.
People with concerns about costs can look into whether they can use their HSA or FSA dollars. Those with health insurance can also check whether their plan provider will cover the cost.
Are at-home fertility tests accurate?
Most tests claim to be close to 99% accurate. However, this may not be the case.
A
People who have questions or are still finding it difficult to get pregnant should speak with a doctor about their results and the next steps.
Does insurance cover at-home fertility tests?
Insurance companies do not have to cover fertility testing — both at home or in facilities — in most states. Only 15 states require any type of coverage, but it is often not sufficient to offset the cost.
Are at-home fertility tests worth it?
At-home fertility tests can empower people to take charge of their family planning. These tests may provide a more accessible way of determining potential ovulation days and sperm count for people who do not have access to healthcare professionals.
Most manufacturers claim that the tests are up to 99% accurate. These tests may be one way to help track ovulation days and sperm count to increase the chance of pregnancy.
Can I check my fertility at home?
Yes, people can order fertility tests to use at home. For females, these include urine tests that show when their most fertile days are during each month, and for males, sperm tests show the volume and health of their semen.
Males will typically need to take the test at home and send a sample to a lab.
At-home fertility tests can help people tell when they are most likely to conceive. The tests check the levels of specific hormones and the characteristics of sperm.
However, fertility tests should not take the place of a doctor’s appointment. It can help to interpret the results with a healthcare professional, who can provide additional advice and, if necessary, treatment.