Starting a fertility journey can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what to expect. A fertility assessment is designed to give you clarity, answers, and expert guidance about your reproductive health as a couple.
At Manchester Fertility, heterosexual couples' fertility assessments are tailored to evaluate both partners through a series of straightforward tests and consultations. The goal is to identify any factors that may be affecting conception and help you understand the most suitable next steps.
Who Should Consider a Fertility Assessment?
A fertility assessment may be recommended if:
● You’ve been trying to conceive without success
● You want reassurance before starting a family
● You have a known medical condition, such as PMOS or endometriosis
● You’ve experienced irregular periods, miscarriage, or previous fertility concerns
● You simply want a better understanding of your reproductive health
Manchester Fertility accepts self-referrals, meaning you do not need a GP referral to book an appointment.
Step 1: Your Initial Phone Call
Your fertility assessment begins with a phone call with a member of the new patient team. During this appointment, you’ll discuss your medical and fertility history, any previous fertility investigations or treatments, your current circumstances and family-building goals, as well as the next steps in your fertility assessment and treatment journey.
This is an opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns you may have. Our team understands that taking the first step can feel daunting, and we will guide you through the process with sensitivity, respect, and clear information about what to expect.
This appointment helps the team understand your individual circumstances and decide which investigations may be most helpful.
Step 2: Female AMH Blood Test
One of the first tests carried out is an Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) blood test.
AMH helps estimate ovarian reserve, the number of eggs remaining in the ovaries. The test itself is a simple blood sample and is usually completed within a few minutes. Many patients find it to be a straightforward part of their assessment.
This test provides valuable information about how the ovaries may respond to fertility treatment if required.
It’s important to remember that a low AMH result does not automatically mean natural conception is impossible. Instead, it provides insight into fertility potential and can help guide future decisions.
Step 3: Pelvic Ultrasound Scan
The female partner will usually undergo a transvaginal ultrasound scan on any day of the cycle (unless there is bleeding) to examine the reproductive system in more detail.
We perform an ultrasound scan of your womb and ovaries to ensure that there are no cysts, fibroids or polyps that could impact your chance of conceiving, as well as evaluate your antral follicle count to assess your ovarian reserve.
An ultrasound scan is painless and gives us accurate and highly detailed information about your reproductive health. The ideal time to have an ultrasound scan is when you are not actively bleeding; this ensures that our sonographers have a clear visualisation of the uterine cavity.
If you feel nervous about this part of the assessment, try not to worry. Our sonographers are very experienced and will explain the procedure very clearly before they begin, ensuring you feel comfortable and informed.
This scan allows fertility specialists to assess:
● The uterus (womb)
● Ovaries
● Antral follicle count
● Presence of fibroids, cysts, or polyps
The scan is a relatively quick procedure, and many patients find it causes little or no discomfort. If you have any questions during your appointment, your sonographer will be there to answer them and provide reassurance throughout.
The scan is typically painless and provides highly detailed information about reproductive health. It is carried out in a private, calm clinical environment, where your comfort, dignity, and well-being remain a priority.
Step 4: Antral Follicle Count (AFC)
During the ultrasound, your sonographer will carry out an antral follicle count.
The antral follicle count assesses your ovarian reserve and predicts your response to fertility treatments.
Step 5: General Female Health Checks
Fertility is influenced by overall health, so additional checks are often included in the assessment.
These may include:
● Height and weight measurements
● BMI calculation
● Blood pressure monitoring
Both high and low BMI can affect ovulation and fertility outcomes. Blood pressure is also important, as unmanaged hypertension can also have an impact on pregnancy and reproductive health
These routine checks are carried out sensitively and respectfully by our clinical team, helping to build a complete picture of your overall health and fertility.
Step 6: Semen Analysis
Male fertility is equally important when assessing a couple’s chances of conception.
A semen analysis evaluates several factors linked to sperm health, including:
● Sperm count
● Motility (movement)
● Morphology (shape)
● Semen volume
● pH levels
These results help identify whether male-factor infertility could be contributing to difficulties conceiving.
We understand that providing a sample can feel uncomfortable or awkward for some patients. Our team aims to make the process as straightforward and discreet as possible, with private facilities and staff available to answer any questions you may have.
Those undergoing a semen analysis require a 2-5 day abstinence period before providing a sample.
Step 7: Reviewing Your Results Together
Once your tests are complete, you’ll attend a follow-up discussion with your fertility consultant.
During this appointment, your specialist will:
● Explain your results clearly
● Discuss any fertility concerns identified
● Recommend next steps
● Suggest lifestyle changes if appropriate
● Explore potential treatment options if needed
You'll have plenty of opportunity to ask questions, and your consultant will take the time to ensure you understand your results and feel confident about the next steps.
What Happens After a Fertility Assessment?
Every couple’s fertility journey is different. Depending on your results, your consultant may recommend:
● Ovulation tracking
● Lifestyle adjustments
● Further diagnostic testing
● Fertility treatment such as IVF
The purpose of a fertility assessment is not simply to diagnose problems but to help couples make informed decisions with confidence and support.
How Much Does a Heterosexual Couple's Fertility Assessment Cost?
At Manchester Fertility, a heterosexual couple's fertility assessment currently costs £465 and includes:
● AMH blood testing
● Pelvic ultrasound scan
● Antral follicle count
● Female health checks
● Semen analysis
● 50-minute consultation with one of our fertility specialists
Prices and package details may change over time, so it’s always best to check directly with the clinic for the latest information.
Taking the first step towards fertility testing can feel emotional, but understanding your fertility health can provide reassurance, direction, and a clearer path forward. From your first conversation through to receiving your results, our team is committed to treating you with compassion, respect, and dignity, helping you feel supported throughout your fertility journey.
A heterosexual couple's fertility assessment is designed to evaluate both partners comprehensively, helping identify any barriers to conception while ensuring you receive personalised advice tailored to your circumstances.
To learn more or to book a fertility assessment, Click Here
Last updated: 20th July 2026
