Fertility Library · 9 October 2026

Which fertility tests might I need? A practical starting point

Understand how fertility investigations differ, which questions they answer and what to discuss with a clinician.

There is no single fertility test that answers every question. The right investigation depends on factors such as age, menstrual history, previous pregnancies, medications, medical history, and whether sperm factors may be relevant.

Start with the question, not the test

Ovulation assessment, ovarian reserve markers, thyroid tests, pelvic imaging and semen analysis explore different aspects of reproductive health. A test can be informative without giving a complete explanation of fertility.

Tests often discussed for women

Depending on the clinical history, a professional may discuss menstrual and ovulation patterns, thyroid function, prolactin, selected reproductive hormones, pelvic ultrasound and assessment of tubal patency. AMH is a marker associated with ovarian reserve and does not, on its own, predict whether someone can conceive naturally.

Tests often discussed for men

Semen analysis assesses characteristics including sperm concentration, movement and morphology. An abnormal result may need repeat testing and clinical interpretation; a result within reference ranges does not guarantee fertility.

When to seek advice

In general, clinical assessment is often recommended after 12 months of trying to conceive, or after 6 months for women aged 35 and older; earlier advice can be appropriate when there are known risk factors, irregular cycles or other concerns. These are broad guideposts, not rules to delay care.

Our assessment can help organise possible gaps and questions to discuss, but it does not diagnose conditions or replace a clinician.

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