A fertility assessment begins with your individual history, menstrual pattern, previous pregnancies, medicines and any symptoms. Depending on your circumstances, a clinician may discuss blood tests, ultrasound, partner factors and referral options; there is no single test that can predict every person's chance of pregnancy.
I start by understanding what has brought you to the appointment and what information would be most useful. The right pathway depends on age, cycle history, how long you have been trying, previous treatment, relevant health conditions and whether there are symptoms needing a separate gynaecology assessment.
Testing should answer a clear clinical question. Results are interpreted together rather than used in isolation, and a normal result does not always explain a delay in conception.
Written & reviewed by
Victoria Medical Clinical Team
GMC-registered physicians and specialist consultants
What an assessment may include
The discussion may include your menstrual cycles, timing, medical history, sexual health, family history and previous investigations. Relevant tests may include selected blood tests or pelvic ultrasound, but only after considering what they can meaningfully add.
A partner's history and testing can also be important. If specialist fertility treatment is appropriate, the clinician can explain referral options and what information may be needed.
When symptoms need prompt assessment
Pain, heavy or unusual bleeding, a positive pregnancy test with pain or bleeding, fever, fainting or sudden severe pelvic pain may need a different and more urgent route than routine fertility planning. Call 999 for severe symptoms, collapse or another life-threatening emergency; use NHS 111 for urgent non-emergency advice when you are unsure.
Making sense of results
Results should be interpreted in context. A test may help identify a factor worth investigating, monitoring or discussing with a specialist; it does not provide certainty about whether or when pregnancy will occur.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
Related Services at Victoria Medical