The dilemma of future family planning and the role of female fertility tests.

Introduction There has been a huge amount of media interest in the development of new home fertility tests for couples trying to conceive. The female fertility tests are marketed as devices that measure the quantity of healthy eggs women have left (ovarian reserve). Ovarian reserve is measured by determining the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the urine. High levels of FSH suggest that the ovaries are not responding to the hormone and that the woman’s ability to conceive may be decreased. The tests show whether the FSH level is above healthy cut-off levels. One test is being marketed particularly to help women decide how long they can delay trying for a baby. In addition to FSH, it also measures inhibin B and anti-Müllerian hormone levels, which decline as the menopause approaches.