At home testing: optimizing management for the infertility physician.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To review and describe various over-the-counter testing products available to the infertility patient, a billion-dollar a year industry that continues to grow. DESIGN: Methodology involved a detailed Medline search of literature, use of online search engines, and focused communications with various manufacturers to determine the usefulness and validity of existing products. CONCLUSION(S) Although some home tests have been subjected to scientific scrutiny, others have not. At-home testing represents an opportunity for physicians to involve patients actively in their care. When properly used, these tests also may result in cost savings. However, physicians and consumers must understand the limitations of these tests. Many of the technologies used are innovative and, with proper evaluation and implementation, could serve as valuable adjuncts to medical practice.