How Long Should You Try Before Getting Fertility Tests?

12th April 2018 in IVF

Read Time: 3 mins

This information was correct at the time of publishing. It may not reflect our current practices, prices or regulations.

If you're considering IVF treatment or other fertility treatments, a comprehensive fertility assessment is one of the first steps in your journey. Our pre-treatment fertility screening tests help us understand your reproductive health, identify any factors affecting fertility, and recommend the most suitable treatment to maximise your chances of achieving a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Our specialists will advise you on which fertility tests are appropriate for your individual circumstances and provide a clear explanation of your results and treatment options.

Female Fertility Tests

Female fertility screening evaluates the key factors that influence female fertility, conception, and pregnancy outcomes.

Transvaginal Ultrasound Scan

Many women will undergo a detailed 3D transvaginal ultrasound scan, also known as a gynaecological ultrasound. This internal scan allows us to assess the:

  • Uterus (womb)
  • Fallopian tubes
  • Ovaries

The scan can identify conditions that may affect fertility, including:

  • Blocked fallopian tubes
  • Fibroids
  • Ovarian cysts
  • Endometriosis-related changes
  • Pelvic adhesions and scarring

Understanding these factors helps us determine which fertility treatment is most likely to be successful.

Fertility Hormone Blood Tests

We also perform specialist fertility blood tests to measure hormone levels linked to ovulation and reproductive health. These tests may assess:

  • Ovarian reserve (egg supply)
  • Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)
  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
  • Other fertility-related hormones

Measuring ovarian reserve helps us estimate how your ovaries may respond to fertility medications used during IVF treatment.

Male Fertility Tests

Male fertility screening typically includes a comprehensive semen analysis to evaluate:

  • Sperm count
  • Sperm motility (movement)
  • Sperm morphology (shape)
  • Overall sperm health

By examining sperm quality under a microscope, our fertility specialists can assess the likelihood of successful fertilisation and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

If male factor infertility is identified, we may recommend Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), an advanced IVF technique specifically designed to help overcome sperm-related fertility issues.

Choosing the Right Fertility Treatment

Your fertility screening results form an important part of your overall fertility assessment. We also consider factors that can affect fertility and treatment success, including:

  • Age
  • General health
  • Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Medical history
  • Lifestyle factors

Taking all of these factors into account allows us to create a personalised fertility treatment plan that offers the best possible chance of a successful pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Book Your Fertility Assessment

If you have any questions about fertility screening, IVF investigations, or fertility treatment options, our Patient Advisors are here to help.

Call 0161 958 6138 to speak with our team or self-refer today to begin your fertility journey.

Last updated: 29th June 2026

Anna Bailey - Patient Advisor
About the author

Anna Bailey

Patient Advisor

With a career background in hospitality and expertise in reception front desk roles, Anna knows exactly how to make you …