DTC Fertility Testing: Boon or Bane?

Researchers recruited 21 participants who consented to be followed on their journey with DTC fertility testing. The study's only author is postdoctoral fellow of the department of medical ethics and health policy in the Perelman School of Medicine, Moira Kyweluk.   

Ethnographic research collected through semi-structured interviews and observation of participants explored various factors that influence ovarian reserve testing, such as medical insurance coverage, ethnicities, sexual orientations, relationship status, gender identity and socioeconomic background.

Either by giving up blood samples directly to a laboratory or using DIY kits with which fingers can be pin-pricked to draw blood, the women collected their blood and later sent it to be examined for hormones. The tests also included follow-up sessions with a designated nurse as part of the testing process of the DTC fertility checkup, presumably hired by the respective company. 

Four Observations Made 

• DTC ovarian reserve testing gave them a unique tool to gain knowledge of their fertility. 
• The information allowed them to feel empowered because they had the autonomy to check themselves outside of a conventional laboratory setting. 
• It provides an opportunity to the LGBTQ + community and single women to understand their chances of conceiving, through an alternative means.  
• Lastly, participants were left confused and uncertain about how to approach the results and were not aware of how to improve or preserve their fertility status further. 

Therefore, this study revealed that DTC fertility checkups only serve to confuse consumers and make them more apprehensive. Hence, the research stresses on educating the consumer on the limitations and purpose of the tests.