There are several tests that can be carried out (by your local doctor) to assess your fertility. The tests see if there are any blockages obstructing the sperm getting to the egg and if any hormone imbalances are preventing the normal workings of the ovary and uterus cycles.

Hormone and Measles Tests

The standard fertility tests that are conducted in women include:

• anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)
• coagulation screening
• complete blood count
• follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
• luteinising hormone (LH)
• oestrogens
• progesterone
• prolactin
• rhesus negative
• rubella (German measles, which can cause infertility and birth defects)
• thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)

These are conducted from a blood test at the start of the menstrual cycle and are the basic set of tests. More complex tests, such as immune testing and chromosome analysis, can be carried out if couples have been struggling to conceive for some time .

It is best to get these tests done on day 2 or 3 of your cycle, except for progesterone. A progesterone test is often taken on day 21 if it’s a normal 28-day menstrual cycle. However, it’s more accurate to measure progesterone seven days before the next bleed to determine whether ovulation has occurred.

Some women, for example those with PCOS, may need to have their testosterone levels measured. Some men may also need to have their testosterone and FSH levels checked depending on their individual health, age and semen result.