Tests - Fertility problems

A sperm test is also known as semen analysis. A lab checks a sample of your sperm for problems such as low sperm count or sperm that do not not move properly.

The service will explain how to give a sperm sample. Usually you provide a sperm sample by masturbation.

You may need blood tests to check for:

• hormone problems
• genetic causes of fertility problems

Specialists that usually arrange tests include specialists 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:

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

You may need to do some blood tests at a specific time in your menstrual cycle.

Sometimes a regional fertility hub or a private specialist arranges tests.

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

The test measures your AMH levels. AMH is a hormone released from cells in your ovaries.

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

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, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

There are 2 types of pelvic ultrasound scans. In some cases, you may have both types.

Transabdominal ultrasound

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

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 to check for any blockages in your fallopian tubes.

A doctor or nurse inserts dye into your cervix (the neck of your womb) with a small tube. If there is no blockage, the doctor or nurse can see the dye going into your pelvis.

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

A doctor or nurse inserts dye into your cervix (the neck of your womb) with a small tube. If there is no blockage, the doctor or nurse can see the dye going into your pelvis.

A laparoscopy is a type of keyhole surgery.

You may have a laproscopy if other tests show that you have a problem that can be treated with keyhole surgery. For example, if you have an ovarian cyst or a very swollen fallopian tube.

You normally have a laproscopy under general anaesthetic (you're asleep).

During a laparoscopy a doctor:

• makes a small cut in your tummy
• passes a thin camera through the cut
• checks your womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries in detail

Sometimes the doctor inserts dye with a small tube into your cervix (the neck of your womb). They use the dye 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 puts a small camera and light into your womb through your vagina. They do not make any cuts in your skin.

You are usually awake for the procedure. You do not have to stay in the hospital overnight.