When to Consider Fertility Testing and What to Expect

It can be challenging and disappointing when natural conception is unsuccessful, especially when you are not sure why you are having trouble. We know that the journey towards becoming a parent can take its toll, and you need people in your corner that can give you answers. The team at Monash IVF can provide you with information and support throughout the process.

Understanding Your Fertility

Many factors may be contributing to your difficulty in conceiving naturally. Certain factors may make your need for fertility testing a little more urgent than others. We recommend that you consult with Monash IVF when you start trying for a baby if you have previously been diagnosed with or treated for the following:

Females

• Irregular or absent periods
• PCOS or endometriosis
• Tubal damage (or previous tubal ligation surgery)
• Recurrent miscarriage
• Premature menopause
• Known genetic concerns
• Pelvic inflammatory disease
• Fibroids
• Adenomyosis

Males

• Low sperm count
• Poor sperm shape or movement
• Anti-sperm antibodies
• Ejaculatory or erectile concerns
• Absence of sperm
• Known genetic concerns
• Issues from a prior vasectomy

If you have not experienced any of the above, fertility testing can still help us pinpoint how our team can help you start your family. We understand that it can be hard to know where to start. However, we find that it helps our patients to know that officially infertility is defined as being unable to fall pregnant after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse for females who are under 35 years old and after six months for females who are over 35 years old. Deciding when to seek help can be difficult, but we recommend that you consult with one of our fertility clinicians if you are having trouble after this window of time.

Components of a Fertility Health Check

• Hormone Blood Tests: These tests measure hormone levels related to fertility, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and others.
• Ovarian Reserve Testing: This gives an indication of the number and quality of eggs in the ovaries.
• Semen Analysis: For men, this test assesses the quality, quantity, and motility of sperm.
• Pelvic Ultrasound: For women, this provides a detailed image of the uterus and ovaries.
• Expert Consultation: A fertility specialist will review the results and offer personalized advice.

Reasons to consider a health check

Early Intervention: Discovering fertility issues early can provide more time to explore various treatment options and improve your chances of having a successful pregnancy.

Informed Decision-making: Understanding your fertility status can help you make informed decisions about your family planning and lifestyle choices.

Mental Preparedness: Knowing your fertility status can also provide emotional relief or prepare you for potential challenges, helping you to plan accordingly.

Get in touch to find out more

A Fertility Health Check is an important, proactive step in understanding your reproductive health. Whether you are currently trying to conceive or planning for the future, this comprehensive assessment can provide valuable insights into your fertility status, helping you make informed decisions and take appropriate actions as needed.

If you are thinking about starting a family and want to learn more about fertility testing, please do not hesitate to book a free, no-obligation fertility chat with one of our nurses. Our friendly team can talk you through your options and discuss your concerns about falling pregnant.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with healthcare professionals for diagnosis and treatment.