What Fertility Tests do I Need?
The vast majority of people won’t need fertility tests, but for an unlucky few, these tests can provide vital information about what could be delaying you getting pregnant and preventing you from expanding your family. But what fertility test (or tests) do I need? We’ll help you navigate the seemingly overwhelming world of fertility testing.
Did you know that just because you’ve already had a child, it doesn’t mean that you can’t have fertility issues in the future? If you’ve already had a baby but have trouble getting pregnant again, this is called secondary infertility. If you are having trouble the first time around, this is referred to as primary infertility.
Can I ask my GP for a fertility test?
Yes you can ask your GP for a fertility test, but it is worth remembering that GPs have to follow guidelines about who they refer on for testing. Your GP will perform an initial check for issues that may be causing you problems getting pregnant. They will likely ask about any previous pregnancies, children, how long you’ve been trying to conceive, your medical history, how often you have sex, medications and lifestyle. If they see cause for concern, they may refer you for fertility tests.
Many people choose to go private if they can because it means no waiting lists, and time is fertility.
Some of the most common types of fertility tests include:
Blood test for AMH levels
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) is produced by follicles in the ovaries. The AMH test, as it is often known, is probably one of the most famous fertility tests. The levels of this hormone found in blood test results can indicate how many eggs you have left in your ovarian reserve. If you have a high ovarian reserve, this suggests you have good fertility. If the results show a low ovarian reserve, this may indicate an underlying issue with the ovaries.
Aqua scan
An aqua scan involves filling the uterus with saline solution via a thin catheter, and then using ultrasound to get a clearer picture of potential issues in the uterine cavity. An aqua scan is usually required if it is suspected that you could have blocked fallopian tubes (the tube through which the egg travels from the ovaries to the uterus in order to meet the sperm). This type of scan can also reveal issues like scar tissue, polyps and other abnormalities in the lining of the uterus that could be preventing you from conceiving.
Transvaginal ultrasound scan
A transvaginal ultrasound is a common procedure for women with suspected fertility issues. It is used by fertility doctors to thoroughly assess all the different parts of the female reproductive system, including the uterus, fallopian tube and even the ovaries. As the wand that scans is inserted internally, it produces a much better picture than a normal external ultrasound on the belly. The procedure may feel uncomfortable but should be painless. There are many private clinics such as The Scan Clinic who offer fertility tests using high resolution ultrasound scans and/or blood tests.
Semen analysis
No, it’s not just women who need fertility tests! The male factor is responsible for a relatively large proportion of infertility cases. Fortunately for men, fertility testing is usually very straight-forward. It involves providing a semen sample at your chosen fertility clinic. This will then be carefully assessed in your clinic’s laboratory for shape, mobility, motility, and sperm count.
Your fertility journey
Fertility testing will give your doctor a good idea of what’s going on, issues that may need investigating further, and how to put together a treatment plan that will offer you the best chance of success. All of the above, or a combination of these, may be recommended based on your individual circumstances, family history, health and more.
The good news is that an infertility diagnosis doesn't mean that there is no hope of having a family. In fact, many times, those with an infertility diagnosis will go on to conceive without any treatment. Others may require some kind of fertility treatment to get there. It just means that some additional steps may be needed to help you achieve your goal.
We wish you the best of luck with your fertility journey.
