Fertility Health Check for Couples
At Eva IVF & Women’s Centre, we believe that fertility is a journey that involves both partners. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, a Fertility Health Check for Couples helps identify potential reproductive issues in both men and women. Early testing provides clarity and allows for timely intervention with the right fertility treatments.
This guide is specifically designed for couples considering a joint fertility evaluation. We’ll walk you through the process, diagnostic tests, pre-evaluation preparations, and post-checkup recommendations to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Couple’s Fertility Health Check and Who Needs It?
A Fertility Health Check for Couples is a comprehensive assessment of both male and female reproductive health to determine the reasons behind delayed conception. Since infertility affects both men and women equally (40% each), evaluating both partners together is the best approach.
Who Should Consider a Couple’s Fertility Check-Up?
✔ Couples who have been trying to conceive for 6-12 months without success
✔ Couples over 30-35 years old planning for pregnancy
✔ Couples with a history of miscarriages or failed fertility treatments
✔ Couples experiencing irregular menstrual cycles, low sperm count, or unexplained infertility
✔ Couples with lifestyle risk factors (smoking, stress, obesity, or exposure to toxins)
💡 Early fertility testing improves your chances of conceiving naturally or through assisted reproductive techniques.
Step-by-Step Fertility Health Check for Couples
1. Initial Consultation & Medical History Assessment
✔ Joint consultation with a fertility specialist to discuss reproductive history, lifestyle factors, and any previous medical conditions.
✔ Evaluation of menstrual cycle regularity (for women) and sexual health (for men).
2. Female Fertility Tests
📌 Hormone Blood Tests (Day 2-3 of Menstrual Cycle):
✔ Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Evaluates ovarian function.
✔ Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Regulates ovulation.
✔ Estradiol (E2): Checks estrogen levels.
✔ Prolactin: Affects ovulation and menstrual cycles.
✔ Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Ensures proper thyroid function for pregnancy.
📌 Transvaginal Ultrasound (Day 2-5 of Menstrual Cycle):
✔ Endometrial Thickness: Determines uterine lining health for implantation.
✔ Detection of PCOS, Fibroids, or Endometriosis: Identifies abnormalities affecting fertility.
📌 Ovulation Tracking (If Needed):
📌 Hysterosalpingography (HSG) or Sonohysterography (If Needed):
💡 If the woman is not ovulating regularly, medications like Clomid or Letrozole may be prescribed to stimulate ovulation.
3. Male Fertility Tests
📌 Semen Analysis – The Most Important Test
• Sperm count (Concentration per mL of semen)
• Sperm motility (Movement ability to reach the egg)
• Sperm morphology (Shape and structure of sperm)
• Semen volume & pH levels
📌 Hormone Testing (Blood Test, If Needed)
📌 Scrotal Ultrasound (If Needed)
💡 If sperm count is low or absent, further tests like TESA/Micro-TESE may be recommended for sperm retrieval.
Interpreting Fertility Test Results for Couples
1. For Women:
✔ AMH Levels:
• Normal AMH (1-3.5 ng/mL): Healthy ovarian reserve.
• Low AMH (<1 ng/mL): Diminished ovarian reserve, may require fertility preservation or IVF.
✔ Ovulation Status:
• Irregular/Absent Ovulation: Suggests PCOS, hormonal imbalance, or ovarian dysfunction.
✔ Fallopian Tube Health:
• Blocked Tubes: May require IVF.
2. For Men:
✔ Sperm Count:
• Low Count: Below 15 million/mL (Oligospermia).
• No Sperm in Semen: Azoospermia (further testing required).
✔ Sperm Motility:
• Poor Motility: Below 40% (Asthenozoospermia).
✔ Sperm Morphology:
• Abnormal: Less than 4% normal sperm (Teratozoospermia).
💡 If any abnormalities are detected, lifestyle modifications, medication, or assisted reproductive techniques (IUI, IVF, ICSI) may be recommended.
Pre-Test Preparation – How to Get the Most Accurate Results?
✔ Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days before semen analysis for an accurate sperm count.
✔ Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine 48 hours before the test.
✔ Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants.
✔ Reduce stress & get proper sleep – Anxiety can temporarily affect sperm health.
✔ Schedule blood tests on Day 2-3 of the menstrual cycle for accurate hormone levels.
💡 Following these steps ensures accurate test results and helps identify the best fertility treatment options.
Post-Fertility Checkup Recommendations – What’s Next?
✔ If results are normal: Continue trying naturally or plan for future conception with lifestyle modifications.
✔ If mild irregularities are found: Fertility medications, dietary supplements, and lifestyle changes may be suggested.
✔ If significant issues are detected: IUI, IVF, ICSI, or egg/sperm donation may be considered.
✔ Regular follow-ups: Couples facing difficulties should undergo fertility tests every 6-12 months.
💡 Most fertility challenges can be overcome with proper treatment and medical guidance.
Benefits of a Couple’s Fertility Health Check – Why Get Tested?
🌟 Detects Infertility Issues in Both Partners Early
🌟 Provides a Clear Plan for Conception – Natural or Assisted
🌟 Improves Chances of a Healthy Pregnancy with Personalized Treatment
🌟 Reduces Emotional Stress by Addressing Fertility Concerns Together