Couple Fertility Screening: Why Both Partners Should Test Together
In the Philippines, when a couple struggles to conceive, questions often fall on the woman: “Gaano ka na katanda?” (How old are you?) “Ano ang kinakain mo?” (What are you eating?)
But here’s the truth: Infertility is not exclusively a female issue .
Research shows that about 40% of infertility cases are related to the female partner, roughly 40% to the male partner, and approximately 20% involve both partners . Couple fertility screening helps identify issues on both sides—so you can take action together.
What Is Couple Fertility Screening?
Couple fertility screening is a comprehensive set of tests that evaluates both partners’ reproductive health .
For women, screening typically includes:
- AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Assesses egg reserve and ovarian function
- FSH, LH, and Estradiol: Evaluates hormonal balance and ovulation
- TSH: Checks thyroid function
- Prolactin: Elevated levels can affect ovulation
- Pelvic Ultrasound: Examines the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes
For men, screening typically includes:
- Semen Analysis: Measures sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape)—the three key parameters of male fertility
- Hormone Tests (FSH, LH, Testosterone): Assesses hormonal health
- Advanced Tests: DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress assessment (in comprehensive packages)
When Should You Consider Couple Fertility Screening?
The general rule: If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months of regular unprotected sex, it’s time to see a specialist .
But don’t wait the full year if you or your partner are:
- 35 years or older (wait only 6 months)
- Have irregular periods or PCOS
- Have endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Have known sperm issues or previous testicular injury
- Experienced recurrent miscarriages
- Have thyroid problems or other hormonal conditions
Why Test Together? The Benefits
1. Save Time and Money
Testing both partners at once gives you answers faster. No back-and-forth. No wasted cycles.
2. Reduces Blame
Infertility is a couple’s journey, not one person’s “fault.” Screening together reinforces that you’re a team.
3. Identifies Issues Early
Some conditions—like low ovarian reserve or sperm DNA fragmentation—may not show symptoms. Early detection means earlier intervention.
4. Guides Treatment Planning
Knowing both sides of the equation helps your doctor recommend the right treatment—whether lifestyle changes, medication, IUI, or IVF .
What to Expect at Your Consultation
Your fertility specialist will start with a thorough interview—including your medical history, sexual history, and how long you’ve been trying . Be honest. The answers help your doctor recommend the right tests.
For female testing: Some tests must be done on specific days of your menstrual cycle (usually Day 2–4 for hormone tests, and Day 21–23 for progesterone) . Your doctor will guide you.
For male testing: Abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 5 days before your semen analysis for accurate results . Avoid alcohol and smoking if possible.
📞 Start Your Couple Fertility Screening at Alpha Fertility Centre
At Alpha Fertility Centre Philippines, we believe fertility is a shared journey. Our couple fertility screening packages are designed to evaluate both partners together—so you get answers, not blame.
Book your couple fertility screening | Call: +63 999 885 4616 | Makati • Quezon City
