Fertility testing

Need to know

• Symptoms prior to needing fertility tests icon plus

  You should see a consultant if you haven't conceived after a year of trying. You should see your doctor sooner if you: are a woman aged 36 or over (as the decline in fertility speeds up when a woman reaches her mid-30s) or you have any reason to be concerned about your fertility - For example, if you've had treatment for cancer or you think you might have had a sexually transmitted infection (STI)

• Diagnosis icon plus

  Before any testing is carried out, it is important that a detailed medical history is taken by one of our specialists.

  Fertility tests for women include:

  • a blood test for a hormone called progesterone to check whether you're ovulating
  • a test for chlamydia, which is an STI that can be treated with antibiotics
  • an ultrasound scan can be used to check your ovaries, womb and fallopian tubes
  • a hysterosalpingogram, or X-ray, of your womb and fallopian tubes after a special dye has been injected
  • a laparoscopy, which involves inserting a thin tube with a camera at the end through a small cut in your stomach to examine your womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries.

• Potential treatment options icon plus

  Should the need for fertility treatment arise the Lister Fertility Clinic with locations at the The Lister Hospital and The Portland Hospital, can provide a range of different fertility options with seamless, high-quality care throughout your treatment.