Ep 21. The One With The Fertility Test

Friends season 9 episode 21, "The One With The Fertility Test," follows the gang as they face the challenges of growing older and trying to conceive a child. Chandler and Monica struggle to conceive, and they start to wonder if something might be wrong. Monica becomes obsessed with the idea that she might be infertile, even though Chandler insists that they haven't been trying for very long. Ross suggests that they get tested to find out if there's a problem and then Chandler becomes nervous.

Meanwhile, Phoebe is asked to sing at a children's library, but she becomes distracted when she meets a man who seems to be flirting with her. She spends the entire performance trying to impress him, but ultimately realizes that he's not interested in her. Joey, on the other hand, is convinced that the guy who runs the library is trying to steal his sandwich.

Back at the fertility clinic, Chandler is shocked to discover that he has a low sperm count. He becomes very emotional, feeling like less of a man and more of a failure. Monica tries to comfort him, but Chandler is distant and withdrawn. When they leave the clinic, they run into Janice, Chandler's ex-girlfriend, who is pregnant. Chandler is overwhelmed by the news, and he starts to feel like he's not meant to be a father.

Phoebe tries to convince Chandler that everything will be okay, and she even offers to be their surrogate if they can't conceive on their own. Chandler is touched by her offer, but he still feels like he's not worthy of being a father. Monica confronts him, telling him that they're in this together and that they'll figure it out, whatever the problem is.

Later, Phoebe and Chandler share a bonding moment when they're left alone in the fertility clinic waiting room. Chandler tells Phoebe that he's scared and he doesn't know what to do. Phoebe reassures him that he's not alone, and that they'll get through this together.

At the end of the episode, everyone is gathered in Monica and Chandler's apartment, awaiting the results of their pregnancy test. Chandler finally opens the envelope and announces that they're not pregnant. They're both disappointed, but they're determined to keep trying. The gang comforts them and assures them that they'll make great parents someday.

"The One With The Fertility Test" is a poignant episode that tackles issues that many 30-something couples face. It's easy to relate to the characters' struggles, and the episode is handled with sensitivity and humor. The acting is superb, and the writing is sharp, making this one of the standout episodes of season 9.