Understanding Infertility: When to Seek Help and What to Expect

Overview

Infertility can be an emotional and difficult journey for many couples. In the UK, more than 8 in 10 couples where the woman is under 40 will conceive naturally within a year of having regular unprotected sex (every 2 to 3 days). However, for those who don’t conceive after 12 months, it may be time to seek medical advice.

When to See a GP
You should book an appointment with your GP if:

• You've been trying to conceive for over a year without success.
• You are a woman aged 36 or older – fertility naturally declines with age.
• You have any concerns about your fertility, such as a history of cancer treatment or a potential STI.

Fertility tests can take time, and female fertility decreases with age, so early assessment is important. Ideally, both partners should attend the appointment, as infertility can affect either or both individuals.

Initial GP Assessment
The GP will take a thorough medical history and ask questions including:

• Previous pregnancies – Including any births, complications, or miscarriages.
• Time spent trying to conceive – If it's been less than a year, you may be encouraged to continue trying.
• Sex life – How often you have sex and whether there are any difficulties.
• Contraception history – What method was used previously and when it was stopped.
• Medical history – Including any past or current conditions and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Medications – Both prescribed and over-the-counter, including herbal supplements.
• Lifestyle – Factors such as smoking, alcohol use, weight, drug use, and stress can all influence fertility.

Physical Examination

• For women: The GP may check BMI, examine the pelvic area, and assess for conditions like fibroids, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• For men: The GP may check the testicles and penis for any abnormalities.

You may be referred to a fertility specialist for further investigations.

Fertility Tests for Women Blood Tests

• Progesterone levels to check for ovulation.
• Gonadotrophins if periods are irregular – these hormones stimulate the ovaries.

Chlamydia Test
A cervical swab or urine sample checks for this STI, which can affect fertility. Antibiotics will be prescribed if needed.

Ultrasound Scans
Used to examine the womb, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It helps detect conditions such as:

• Fibroids
• Endometriosis
• Blocked fallopian tubes

Specialised scans like:

• Transvaginal ultrasound: A probe inserted into the vagina to assess reproductive organs.
• Hysterosalpingo-contrast-ultrasonography (HyCoSy): A fluid is passed through the womb and viewed via ultrasound to check the fallopian tubes.

X-Ray (Hysterosalpingogram)
A dye is injected and an X-ray taken to highlight any blockages in the fallopian tubes.

Laparoscopy
Keyhole surgery involving a small incision in the abdomen to visually examine the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Dye may be used to detect blocked tubes. This test is generally reserved for those with suspected issues like past PID or abnormalities seen on scans.

Fertility Tests for Men Semen Analysis
This checks:

• Sperm count
• Sperm movement
• Sperm shape and structure

Chlamydia Test
A urine sample is taken to test for the infection, which can affect fertility. Treatment includes antibiotics if needed.

Next Steps

If an underlying cause is found, you may be referred to a fertility clinic for specialised treatment options. At Ready Health Standish, we’re here to support and guide you through every step of your fertility journey.

Need help or have concerns about your fertility?
Book a consultation with our clinical team today to begin your personalised assessment and care plan on 01257 676001.