Appy · 2 min
Fertility investigations
3 sections · 2 min read
Which blood tests are usually ordered for fertility investigations?
Blood tests commonly ordered in primary care for menstrual and reproductive health include:
• Hormones: , , oestradiol, often timed to specific days of your cycle (so it may require a second appointment or a coordinated plan) • , to check whether you are ovulating, taken at a specific point in your cycle • Thyroid function, thyroid problems can directly affect periods and fertility • Prolactin, relevant if periods are absent or infrequent • (, DHEAS), if PMOS is suspected • Blood sugar and lipids, relevant in PMOS, particularly for South Asian women
What other fertility investigations might you be offered?
An ultrasound scan can check the ovaries and womb for structural abnormalities, polycystic-appearing ovaries, , and other findings.
A () or similar test can check whether the fallopian tubes are open. This is an important part of fertility investigation that is sometimes overlooked.
Your doctor can also arrange a for your partner. Male factor contributes to 40 to 50% of fertility difficulties, so both partners should be investigated.
Can you ask your GP to run these fertility tests yourself?
You do not need to wait to be offered these tests. You can ask your doctor about them. If your doctor is unsure about what to arrange, they can refer you to a specialist who will coordinate the appropriate investigations.
If needed, your doctor can refer you to a fertility specialist. You have the right to ask for a referral if you feel it is appropriate.
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Authored and reviewed by clinicians from the founding team. Information only, not personalised medical advice.