Fertility Tests - fully investigate your health before IVF (2025)

A fertility test is a medical assessment used to evaluate a person's or couple's ability to conceive. It typically involves a combination of physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies to identify potential issues affecting fertility.

Fertility testing works by examining various aspects of reproductive health. For women, this often includes blood tests to measure hormone levels, ultrasound scans to assess the reproductive organs, and sometimes more specialized procedures. For men, it usually involves a semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology.

You should consider fertility testing if you've been trying to conceive for more than 4 months without success. Testing may also be recommended earlier if you have irregular periods, you have been using contraception for a long period, a history of pelvic surgery, or other risk factors.

The duration of fertility testing can vary. Some tests, like blood draws or ultrasounds, may only take a few minutes. However, the entire process of fertility testing, should be completed within 4 – 6 weeks, depending on a woman’s cycle and the availability of the individuals being tested.

The timing of fertility tests can be important, especially for hormone tests. Some tests, like FSH and LH, are typically done on days 2-5 of your menstrual cycle. Please consult the doctor if you have an irregular cycle.

For most fertility tests, including blood tests and ultrasounds, you can eat normally. However, for some specific tests, you may be asked to fast. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

For semen analysis, men are typically advised to abstain from ejaculation for 2-4 days before the test, and no more than 5 days. This ensures an accurate assessment of sperm count and quality.

There's no specific age limit for fertility testing. However, it's often recommended for women over 35 who have been trying to conceive for 6 months without success, or for younger women who have been trying for a year.

Age can significantly impact fertility test results, particularly for women. As women age, their ovarian reserve typically decreases, which can be reflected in lower AMH levels and higher FSH levels. Age-related decline in egg quality can also affect fertility potential.

Fertility tests are generally quite accurate in assessing various aspects of reproductive health. However, they provide a snapshot of fertility at a specific point in time and cannot predict future fertility with certainty. Some tests, like AMH and semen analysis, are considered highly reliable indicators of fertility potential.

Most fertility tests are low-risk procedures. Blood tests and ultrasounds are generally safe. Some tests, like HyCoSy, are somewhat invasive but generally safe. Your doctor will discuss any potential risks associated with specific tests.