Pregnancy is a different journey for everyone and the time it takes to become pregnant varies. Factors such as age, body weight, environmental factors, and stress levels affect an individual’s fertility rates. However, what can be said with certainty is that fertility challenges which are being faced by people are growing due to a number of reasons. “Most women become pregnant within a year of trying (age can play a role here), with approximately one-third becoming pregnant within a month of trying. Although, one in every seven couples face struggles to conceive, according to Dr. Gunjan Sabherwal, In vitro fertilisation (IVF) specialist at Nova IVF fertility. Elaborating on challenges, she explains, “In females, fertility challenges can be caused due to underlying conditions such as endometriosis, Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), abnormalities of the ovaries, uterus or fallopian tubes. Men also face fertility issues that can be caused due to andropause, ejaculation issues, blockages in the genital tract, hormonal imbalance, etc.”

Fertility tests are an essential component of reproductive health, and involve the assessment of the reproductive system, hormones, and other factors that can impact a couple's ability to conceive according to the expert. Stressing on the importance of fertility tests, she adds, “It is extremely important for young couples, even those desiring parenthood not in the present moment but at a later stage, to have a fertility check-up done from their fertility specialist.” Below, she answers important questions pertaining to fertility tests, for both men and women.