Fertility Testing

Fertility Blood Tests

Fertility testing involves the initial diagnostic and screening tests, as well as ongoing cycle-tracking blood tests.

Understanding Fertility Blood Testing

Blood tests for fertility are diagnostic tools that provide valuable information about your reproductive health. They primarily involve assessing the levels of various hormones that play critical roles in ovulation and fertility. Some of these include Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinising Hormone (LH), Oestradiol, Progesterone, and Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH).

We may also recommend tests for thyroid function or other relevant health markers depending on your unique situation.

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Who are fertility blood tests for?

Couples Struggling with Conception

For couples who have been unable to conceive despite regular, unprotected intercourse, fertility blood tests can be a crucial part of the diagnostic process to uncover potential causes. If you have been trying to get pregnant for several months without success, these tests can help identify potential issues such as hormonal imbalances that may be affecting your ability to conceive.

Individuals Planning for Future Pregnancy

If you are planning to start a family, you may want to understand your current fertility status. These tests provide crucial insights into reproductive health which can aid future family planning.

Patients Undergoing Fertility Treatments

Fertility blood tests are essential for individuals who are undergoing fertility treatments like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). These tests provide important information that guides the course of treatment.

Individuals with Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Individuals experiencing irregular or abnormal menstrual cycles can benefit from fertility blood tests. These tests can help identify underlying hormonal issues like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or premature ovarian failure.

Individuals in their Late 30s or Early 40s

Fertility blood tests are especially useful for individuals in their late 30s or early 40s who are trying to get pregnant. These tests can evaluate factors like egg quality and quantity, which can be influenced by age.

Male Fertility Concerns

Individuals who have concerns about their fertility status, such as low sperm count or low testosterone levels, should consider fertility blood tests. These tests can help identify potential issues and inform treatment options.

Individuals with Certain Health Conditions

People with health conditions that can affect fertility, such as thyroid disorders, can benefit from fertility blood tests. These tests can provide insights into how their condition may be impacting their fertility.

Why is fertility testing used? 

The results of these screening and in-cycle blood tests are reviewed closely by our team and are used to help determine the next appropriate course of action during your cycle, and by your Specialist to ascertain the best treatment option/s for you going forward.  Your treatment will be tailored in accordance with your results as your cycle progresses.  

Who can get a fertility test?  

Fertility blood tests are available to all Fertility North patients, regardless of where you are in your treatment journey.  If you are not already a Fertility North patient, please contact us to learn how we can help you.  

Types of fertility blood testing

Fertility blood tests at Fertility North fall under two categories:

Screening tests

Screening blood tests occur at the very beginning of your journey, even before you have begun any treatment.  These fertility tests are important as they allow us to check for any underlying health conditions that may contribute to a delay in conceiving, and also enable us to tailor treatment according to your individual needs.

Fertility North will assess your blood count, blood group, chromosome count, hormone levels and an infection screen, as well as a prostate cancer check for males.  During your consultation, your Fertility North Doctor may also recommend additional screening fertility tests, in accordance with your medical and family history.  These screening tests are carried out on both partners (if applicable) and consist of mainly blood tests, but a urine test is also performed and the infectious screening tests are repeated on an annual basis.

In-cycle tests / cycle tracking

During an investigative or treatment cycle, the female patient will be required to undertake regular blood tests to track the levels of reproductive hormones over the course of a month (or thereabouts).  Throughout your cycle, Fertility North will monitor the levels of these hormones:

  • Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
  • Oestrogen (E2)
  • Luteinising Hormone (LH)
  • Progesterone (P4)
  • Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin (hCG)

Please refer to our Cycle Tracking page for more information on how we conduct in-cycle blood tests at Fertility North.

Testing for hormones related to ovulation

These tests assess the levels of various hormones in the body, which play a crucial role in fertility. They can be particularly useful in diagnosing conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), which affects ovulation and can lead to fertility issues.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test

This test evaluates levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, a vital agent for reproduction. In females, FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, each containing an egg. In males, it promotes sperm production. Elevated FSH levels in females can indicate diminished ovarian reserve, an essential factor for fertility.

 

What does an abnormal FSH level indicate?

Abnormal FSH levels can indicate problems with ovarian or testicular function.

When during my cycle should I have this test done?

This test is usually done on the third day of your menstrual cycle.

Can an FSH test help diagnose why I'm not getting pregnant?

Yes, an FSH test can identify issues related to egg or sperm production that may be impacting fertility.

Luteinising Hormone (LH) Test

This test measures the levels of luteinising hormone, a critical player in the reproductive process. In females, LH triggers ovulation – the release of an egg from the ovary. In males, it contributes to testosterone production. Understanding LH levels can help diagnose issues with ovulation or conditions that affect hormone balance, such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).

What does an abnormal LH level indicate?

Abnormal LH levels can indicate issues with ovulation in females or testosterone production in males. High levels may suggest conditions like PCOS, while low levels can indicate insufficient production of sex hormones.

When during my cycle should I have this test done?

This test is usually performed on day 3 of the menstrual cycle. However, to detect the LH surge indicating ovulation, testing may be done daily in the mid-cycle.

Can an LH test help diagnose why I'm not getting pregnant?

Yes, an LH test can help diagnose ovulation disorders or conditions such as PCOS, which may be impacting your ability to conceive.

Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) Test

The AMH test measures Anti-Mullerian Hormone, a protein hormone produced by cells within the ovary. AMH levels can provide an indication of a person’s ovarian reserve, or the quantity of remaining eggs. AMH can be tested at any time during the menstrual cycle, making it a convenient option for assessing fertility.

AMH Testing

What does a high or low AMH level mean for my fertility?

High AMH levels can indicate conditions like PCOS; low levels may suggest diminished ovarian reserve.

Can AMH levels predict when I will reach menopause?

AMH levels can give insight into your remaining egg supply, but they aren’t a definitive predictor of menopause.

Can the AMH test be done at any time during my cycle?

Yes, the AMH test can be done at any time during your menstrual cycle.

Testing for hormones related to the menstrual cycle

These tests help evaluate the balance and interplay of key hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle, which is a fundamental aspect of female fertility. Hormonal imbalances can lead to irregular cycles, hinder ovulation, and impact the body’s ability to sustain a pregnancy. Conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) or Hyperprolactinemia can alter these hormone levels, so understanding your hormonal health can help guide your fertility journey.

Oestradiol Test

This test checks the level of oestradiol, a form of estrogen, the primary female sex hormone. Oestradiol is integral to the menstrual cycle, the development of secondary sexual characteristics, and the preparation of the uterus for pregnancy. An imbalance in oestradiol levels can impact fertility and menstrual regularity.

How do Oestradiol levels affect my fertility?

Oestradiol levels are crucial for egg maturation and release, as well as endometrial growth.

What does it mean if my Oestradiol levels are too high or too low?

High levels can indicate ovarian hyperstimulation, while low levels may suggest poor ovarian reserve.

How does this test fit into my overall fertility evaluation?

It’s an essential component of the overall fertility evaluation as it gives insight into your ovarian function.

Progesterone Test

This test assesses progesterone, a hormone that prepares the uterus for pregnancy after ovulation by thickening the lining of the uterus to support a fertilised egg. Monitoring progesterone levels can help determine whether ovulation has occurred and if the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle is functioning well.

What do my progesterone levels say about my ovulation?

Progesterone levels can confirm whether ovulation has occurred.

When in my menstrual cycle should this test be done?

It’s best to do this test about a week before you expect your next period.

Can low progesterone levels be treated to improve fertility?

Yes, treatments like progesterone supplements can be used to boost levels if they are low.

Prolactin Test

The prolactin test monitors levels of prolactin, a hormone that can affect menstrual periods and fertility if levels are too high. It’s usually involved in milk production, but abnormal levels can interfere with other hormones and lead to fertility problems.

How can high prolactin levels affect my fertility?

High prolactin levels can inhibit FSH and GnRH, disrupting ovulation and thus fertility.

Can medications or lifestyle changes lower prolactin levels?

Yes, both medications and lifestyle changes can help lower prolactin levels.

What other conditions might be associated with high prolactin levels?

Conditions like hypothyroidism, pituitary disorders, or certain medications can cause high prolactin levels.

Testing for thyroid function

Assessing thyroid function is an integral part of evaluating your overall reproductive health. The thyroid gland, although small, has a significant influence on your body’s metabolism, growth, and development. Abnormal thyroid hormone levels can interfere with menstrual regularity, ovulation, and even the ability to conceive and maintain a healthy pregnancy. Therefore, through the following tests, we can measure key hormones such as Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Free T3, and Free T4 to provide a comprehensive understanding of your thyroid function and its possible impact on your fertility.

Thyroid Function Test

This test measures hormones such as Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Free T3, and Free T4. The thyroid plays a vital role in the body’s overall metabolic function, which can impact several systems, including reproductive health. Thyroid issues can interfere with menstrual regularity and ovulation, affecting fertility.

How does thyroid function affect fertility?

Thyroid function can affect menstrual regularity and ovulation, which can impact fertility.

Can thyroid disease cause problems in pregnancy?

Yes, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause problems during pregnancy.

How is a thyroid disorder treated if it's found to be affecting my fertility?

Treatment varies and can include medications to regulate thyroid hormone levels.

Male fertility blood testing

In males, hormones like testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin play a pivotal role in reproductive health. Their influence extends from the production of healthy sperm to the development of male sexual characteristics. Assessing these hormone levels can shed light on potential fertility issues, including low sperm count or poor sperm health. Understanding these levels also assists in diagnosing conditions that could be affecting fertility potential. Therefore, these tests are a fundamental part of the male fertility evaluation.

Testosterone Test (for men)

This test measures levels of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. In addition to contributing to sexual characteristics in males, testosterone is crucial for sperm production. An imbalance can affect sperm count, morphology, and motility.

How does testosterone impact fertility in males?

Testosterone is crucial for sperm production, and low levels can affect fertility.

What are the causes and consequences of low testosterone levels?

Low testosterone can be caused by various factors, and may result in decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and reduced sperm count.

What treatments are available to boost testosterone if levels are low?

Treatments include testosterone replacement therapy or medications to stimulate testosterone production.

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test

This test determines levels of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, a protein that binds to sex hormones, including testosterone and oestradiol. It helps regulate the amounts of active hormones in the body. Abnormal levels can impact testosterone availability, affecting sperm production and fertility.

How can SHBG levels affect my fertility?

SHBG binds to testosterone. High levels can limit the availability of free testosterone, affecting sperm production.

What factors could cause my SHBG levels to be high or low?

Factors such as liver disease, hyperthyroidism, and obesity can affect SHBG levels.

How can I adjust my SHBG levels to improve fertility?

Treatments to adjust SHBG levels could include lifestyle modifications or medications to address underlying conditions.

How we assist you with your fertility blood testing

Reputable

Fertility North have been arranging fertility blood tests for our patients for twenty years.  We are a proven expert in determining the most appropriate fertility testing for your circumstances.

Partnership with Clinipath pathology

Through our partnership with Clinipath Pathology, we are able to offer a comprehensive range of tests best suited to your individual circumstances.

Results quickly and efficiently

Results of your fertility tests are received quickly and efficiently, from an accredited and reputable local service, with over 60 locations throughout the Perth metropolitan area dedicated to fertility testing.

Regional and remote patients are not forgotten!

Our regional and remote patients are not forgotten either. Where available, we will liaise directly with your local pathology service to coordinate your fertility blood tests.

Want to talk to a fertility specialist?

Please contact us to make an appointment.

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