For individuals or couples trying to conceive, a fertility health check can be an important first step in understanding their reproductive health. Whether you’re just starting your journey or have been trying for some time, this process offers valuable insights into factors that could be impacting fertility and helps identify solutions. Clinics like Create Fertility provide fertility health checks for both men and women.
Fertility health checks are not solely for those experiencing difficulty conceiving—they can also be a proactive step for anyone who wants to assess their reproductive health and plan for the future. But what exactly is involved in a fertility health check?
Why Consider a Fertility Health Check?
Fertility can be influenced by a wide range of factors, including age, lifestyle, medical history, and underlying health conditions. For women, fertility naturally declines with age, especially after 35. For men, factors like sperm quality and overall health can also impact conception. A fertility health check provides a clearer picture of these factors, helping individuals and couples make informed decisions about family planning.
For those trying to conceive, a fertility health check can pinpoint potential obstacles, such as hormonal imbalances, ovulation issues, or sperm-related concerns. Even if no issues are found, it offers peace of mind and guidance for moving forward.
What Happens During a Fertility Health Check?
The process typically involves a combination of medical history reviews, physical examinations, and diagnostic tests. These steps are designed to assess both male and female fertility, depending on individual circumstances.
1. Initial Consultation
The fertility health check begins with an initial consultation, where a healthcare professional or fertility specialist will review your medical history, lifestyle, and any previous attempts at conception. They may ask about:
- Menstrual cycle regularity.
- Past pregnancies or miscarriages.
- Any known medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis.
- Medications or treatments you’re currently undergoing.
- Lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, alcohol consumption, and smoking.
For men, the consultation might include discussions about overall health, any urological issues, or previous injuries or surgeries that could affect fertility.
2. Physical Examination
A physical examination may be conducted to identify any physical conditions that could impact fertility. For women, this could include a pelvic examination to check for abnormalities in the reproductive organs. For men, a doctor might examine the testicles and evaluate any potential structural issues.
3. Hormonal Testing
Hormones play a crucial role in fertility, so testing hormone levels is often a key part of the process. For women, this might include:
- Testing levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH), which regulate ovulation.
- Checking anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels to estimate ovarian reserve.
- Evaluating thyroid function, as thyroid imbalances can affect fertility.
For men, hormonal testing may assess testosterone and other hormones that influence sperm production.
4. Ultrasound Scans
For women, an ultrasound scan of the pelvis is commonly performed to assess the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It can help detect conditions like fibroids, ovarian cysts, or blocked fallopian tubes, which might impact fertility. A transvaginal ultrasound is often used for a closer view of the reproductive organs.
5. Semen Analysis
For men, a semen analysis is a critical part of the fertility health check. This test evaluates sperm count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and overall semen quality. It helps identify potential issues that could be affecting conception.
6. Additional Testing
Depending on the results of the initial tests, further investigations might be recommended. These could include:
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG) or saline sonohysterography to check for blockages in the fallopian tubes.
- Genetic testing to identify any hereditary conditions that might affect fertility or pregnancy.
- Blood tests to check for infections or immunity to certain conditions, such as rubella.
Interpreting the Results
Once the tests are complete, the fertility specialist will review the results with you. They will explain what the findings mean, identify any potential barriers to conception, and discuss options for moving forward.
If any issues are identified, treatment options will depend on the specific diagnosis. For instance:
- Hormonal imbalances might be treated with medication.
- Structural issues could require surgical intervention.
- Assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI), may be recommended in certain cases.
Preparing for a Fertility Health Check
If you’re considering a fertility health check, it’s helpful to come prepared. Keep track of your menstrual cycle, note any symptoms or concerns, and bring any relevant medical records or test results. For men, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—avoiding smoking, reducing alcohol intake, and managing stress—can help ensure accurate test results.
Open communication with your healthcare provider is also important. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns about the process or the results.
Educating and Supporting Individuals Through the Process
Understanding the fertility health check process can make it less daunting, especially for those who are unsure of what to expect. Fertility clinics and healthcare providers play a vital role in educating individuals and couples about their options and guiding them through each step. Clinics like Create Fertility, for example, are known for their supportive and compassionate approach, offering tailored advice and care to help individuals on their fertility journey.
Whether you’re planning ahead or seeking answers after a period of trying to conceive, a fertility health check provides invaluable insights that can pave the way toward achieving your goals. With the right information and support, individuals and couples can take proactive steps to optimise their reproductive health and take control of their family planning journey.
