Tests - Fertility problems

A sperm test is also known as semen analysis. A sample of your sperm is analysed in a lab. It checks for problems with sperm, such as a low sperm count or sperm that are not moving properly.

If you have to do a sperm test you will be given instructions on how to give a sperm sample.

Usually you will be asked to provide a sperm sample by masturbation.

You may need blood tests to check for:

• hormone problems
• genetic causes of fertility problems

These tests will usually be arranged by a specialist in:

• fertility (for example at a regional fertility hub)
• hormones (endocrinologist)
• male urinary and reproductive organs (urologist)

Your GP may do some blood tests to check your general health.

This could be to check:

• for hormonal imbalances that could affect your fertility
• if you are ovulating

Some blood tests are only taken at a specific time in your cycle so you may be told to have the tests at another time.

Sometimes tests will be arranged by a regional fertility hub or a private specialist.

This test helps estimate how many eggs you have in your ovaries. This is known as your ovarian reserve. It helps fertility specialists decide on the next steps.

The test measures your AMH levels. AMH is a hormone released from around the eggs in your ovaries.

A low AMH result does not mean you cannot get pregnant.

An ultrasound scan, also known as a pelvic ultrasound scan checks:

• that your womb and ovaries appear normal
• for problems such as ovarian cysts and fibroids or severe endometriosis

Sometimes a scan can help diagnose conditions that cause fertility problems, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

There are 2 types of pelvic ultrasound scans. In some cases, both may be needed.

Transabdominal ultrasound

A probe with gel is placed on your tummy (abdomen) and moved over the skin. You need a full bladder for this.

Transvaginal ultrasound

A long, thin probe covered with gel and a plastic or latex sheath is placed into your vagina.

Your doctor will make sure you are comfortable during the scan.

A HyCoSy is a special type of ultrasound scan.

A doctor or nurse will insert dye into your cervix (the neck of your womb) with a small tube. This is to check for any blockages in your fallopian tubes. If there is no blockage, the dye may be seen going into your pelvis.

This is a type of x-ray to check for blockages in your fallopian tubes. It is similar to a HyCoSy except x-rays are used instead of an ultrasound scan.

A doctor or nurse will insert dye into your cervix (the neck of your womb) with a small tube. This is to check for any blockages in your fallopian tubes. If there is no blockage, the dye may be seen going into your pelvis.

A laparoscopy is a type of keyhole surgery.

A small cut is made in your tummy. A doctor then passes a camera through it. This is so they can look at your womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries in detail.

It is usually done if other tests show that you have a problem that can be treated with keyhole surgery at the same time.

For example, if you have an ovarian cyst or a very swollen fallopian tube.

You will normally have a general anaesthetic. This means you are asleep.

Sometimes they will insert dye with a small tube into your cervix (the neck of your womb). This is to see if there are any blockages in your tubes.

A hysteroscopy checks the inside of the womb (uterus) for polyps, fibroids or scarring.

A doctor or nurse will put a small camera and light into your womb. They are passed into your womb through your vagina and cervix (neck of your womb). This means no cuts need to be made in your skin.

It is usually done with no anaesthetic - you will not be asleep. You do not have to stay in the hospital overnight.