Fertility tests for men and women at the London Fertility Centre
Fertility tests for men:
The most appropriate fertility test for men is a semen analysis. In order for us to conduct this test you will be required to produce a semen sample at the LFC's clinic on Portland Place.
Fertility tests for women:
For women there are a variety of tests available to establish normal anatomy and physiology. An ultrasound scan assessment of ovary volume and follicle count may be helpful in assessing ovarian reserve.
Ovarian reserve or an assessment of the quantity of eggs that maybe remaining within the ovary may be detected using a variety of different bloods tests. These tests detect levels of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinzing Hormone (LH), Oestradial (E2), Prolactin (PRL) and Anti-Mullerian Hormone(AMH). AMH and FSH (with LH and oestradiol) currently seem to provide the most accurate guage of fertility. The best time to have these investigations performed is between days 2 and 4 of the cycle.
Unfortunately, the results do not give a ‘black and white’ answer, but give an estimate of your ovarian reserve. You should also be aware that these tests are not necessarily an insurance policy guaranteeing successful fertility in the future.
Depending on these results, options can be reassessed and further investigations may be conducted if necessary.
Further investigations which can be conducted (note that some may take place elsewhere):
- Hycosy (to assess the uterine cavity and the patency of your tubes)
- HSG (Hysterosalpingogram - radiology procedure to investigate the shape of the uterine and fallopian tubes)
- screening blood tests (for infectious markers)
- Hysteroscopy and/or Laparoscopy or blood tests for genetic screening.