Fertility Testing - Infertility in Men & Women

Sample type needed	Blood, Urine, Swabs
Incubation period	Test dependent
Who is this test suitable for?	Men and women
Results time	Test dependent but generally within 4 days from when your sample is received in the lab
Treatment	Most infections and disorders can be treated effectively
Where can I get tested?	All Better2Know centres

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What is Fertility and Infertility Testing?

Fertility and Infertility testing should be carried out when you or your partner are concerned about your ability to have children. Fertility testing can include tests to measure how fertile or how able you are to conceive a child. These tests might include tests for Progesterone which is a hormone and a good indicator of ovulation. In men, fertility testing can include hormone tests as well as tests on your sperm to see how motile they are and how many there are.

Infertility tests are generally carried out to find out why a couple are not able to become pregnant. These tests are done on both men and women and are trying to establish the cause of any problems.

Most couples (up to 80 per cent) will become pregnant within a year of trying to conceive a child. To achieve this, they should be having sex regularly (up to 2 to 3 times per week) and should not have any physical problems or carry any infections that can prevent or interfere with pregnancy. Not all couples will become pregnant quickly, but they should give it time and keep trying. In most cases, this will work. However, for around 20 per cent of couples, there is an underlying cause preventing pregnancy.

If a couple wants to conceive a child, they should get a screen of tests to ensure they are healthy and infection free. If these tests are all clear, and there are no other known problems, then the couple should have regular unprotected sexual intercourse. If after 6 months to a year there is still no pregnancy, then further investigation is needed.

How do I know if I have a problem?

Problems with pregnancy can take many different forms. There can be issues with sexual intercourse which interfere with the normal fertilisation process. These problems can include erectile problems for men and conditions such as vaginismus in women where involuntary contractions of the vagina can prevent full penetration. There are tests available for all these conditions, so if you are in doubt, just give Better2Know a call.

The most obvious problem is not becoming pregnant. If after a year of trying, there is still no pregnancy then additional investigations and tests are required. These tests may include for women, certain Hormone test such as FSH, Oestradiol, or the Antimullarian Hormone. For men, tests such as for Testosterone, Prolactin and Inhibin B (male) might be required. Again, if you have any questions just contact Better2Know.

Symptoms of Fertility and Infertility problems

Erectile problems,
Low sperm counts,
Low sperm motility,
Ovulation problems,
Polycystic ovaries,
Unusual discharges,
Fevers,
Prostate infections,
Other infections.

Did you know? …

Bacterial Vaginosis and other infections can cause a condition in women called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). This is when the infection migrates from the vagina to the fallopian tubes and causes inflammation and scarring preventing the passage of eggs for fertilisation.

How can I become infertile?

The main cause of infertility in men is either a problem with the production of sperm or a problem with the transport of sperm. About 60 per cent of men with a fertility problem have a problem making sperm in the testes. Around 10 per cent of cases of female infertility are caused by problems with the uterus. Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), fibroids, polyps and adenomyosis can all lead to blockages in a woman’s fallopian tubes or uterus, thus preventing the normal passage of eggs for fertilisation.

What happens if I do not get a fertility test?

If your fertility problems are caused by an infection, getting tested is very important. If an infection is identified, it can be treated and in most cases cured with fertility being restored. If you are having problems conceiving a child, contact Better2Know for help.

How do I get a fertility or infertility test?

Most tests are quick and easy and require just a small blood sample or a urine sample. Contact Better2Know and we will make an appointment at a clinic near you where you can discuss your situation and all necessary samples for your tests will be taken. We will get your results back within just a few days and you can then start any treatments required to help you have a baby.

Simply call Better2Know now on the number above and our friendly booking team will help you to decide which fertility tests are right for you.