Struggling to conceive can be an emotionally challenging journey, but taking the first step with a fertility evaluation can bring you closer to answers—and solutions. One of the most common questions we hear from couples visiting our fertility specialists at Womb IVF and Fertility is:
“What kind of fertility tests will we need to go through?”
Here is a guide taking you through the various fertility tests for men and women, what to expect, and how they help identify the root cause of infertility.
Why Are Fertility Tests Important?
Fertility issues can affect both partners—male and female. In fact, research shows that in around 40% of infertility cases, the issue lies with the female partner, in another 40% with the male, and in the remaining 20%, it’s a combination or unexplained.
That’s why a comprehensive fertility work-up is the first step towards a personalized treatment plan. These tests help assess ovulation, hormone levels, egg quality, sperm health, and the condition of reproductive organs.
Fertility Tests for Women
Here’s what you can typically expect during a female fertility evaluation:
- Hormone Blood Tests – to evaluate your reproductive hormone levels, including:
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) – indicates ovarian reserve
LH (Luteinizing Hormone) – tracks ovulation
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) – measures egg reserve
Thyroid function (TSH) – thyroid issues can affect fertility
Prolactin – high levels may interfere with ovulation
- Transvaginal Ultrasound – a painless scan that allows your fertility doctor to:
Check the ovaries, uterus, and endometrial lining
Count antral follicles (egg-containing sacs)
Detect cysts, fibroids, or abnormalities
- Ovulation Tracking – where you may be asked to track your ovulation using:
Basal body temperature charting
Ovulation predictor kits (OPKs)
Mid-cycle blood tests or scans
- HSG (Hysterosalpingography) – an X-ray procedure where a special dye is injected into the uterus to check if the fallopian tubes are open and if the uterus has a normal shape.
- Sonohysterography or Hysteroscopy – to help examine the inside of the uterus in more detail and identify issues like polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue.
Fertility Tests for Men
Male fertility evaluation is just as important. Here’s what men can expect:
- Semen Analysis – a basic yet crucial test, semen analysis checks:
Sperm count (quantity)
Motility (movement)
Morphology (shape)
Semen volume and consistency
This test helps identify male factor infertility and guides further treatment.
- Hormone Blood Tests – tests like FSH, LH, testosterone, and prolactin help identify hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production.
- Scrotal Ultrasound – this may be done to check for varicocele (enlarged veins), testicular cysts, or blockages in the reproductive tract.
- Genetic Testing (If needed) – if the sperm count is extremely low or zero, doctors may recommend genetic tests to check for chromosomal abnormalities or Y chromosome microdeletions.
- Post-Ejaculation Urinalysis – a test used to detect retrograde ejaculation, a condition where semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis.
What Happens After Testing?
Once all test results are in, the fertility specialist at Womb IVF and Fertility will:
Explain the findings in simple, understandable terms
Discuss the possible causes of infertility
Recommend a personalized treatment plan, which may include options like IVF (In-Vitro Fertilization), IUI (Intrauterine Insemination), egg or sperm freezing, or medication for ovulation induction
Preparing for Your Fertility Tests:
For women: Schedule hormone tests early in the menstrual cycle (typically Day 2–5).
For men: Abstain from ejaculation for 2–5 days before semen analysis.
Share your full medical history, including lifestyle habits, medications, and prior surgeries.
Don’t stress—most tests are routine and non-invasive.
Understanding your fertility is empowering. These tests aren’t about labeling or blaming—they’re about clarity, control, and direction. Whether you’re at the beginning of your fertility journey or have been trying for some time, testing provides a foundation to build your path to parenthood.
At Womb IVF and Fertility, we’re committed to offering compassionate care, scientific accuracy, and personalized guidance. If you have questions or are ready to take the next step, our experts are here to support you.