Private Fertility Services: Tests, Treatments and Choosing a Clinic

In short: Most couples where the woman is under 40 conceive within a year of regular unprotected sex. See a GP if you have not conceived after a year of trying, or sooner if the woman is 36 or over or you already know of a possible fertility problem. Fertility care ranges from simple blood tests and semen analysis to treatments such as IUI and IVF. In the UK, clinics offering IVF, IUI with donor sperm and egg or embryo storage must be licensed by the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA).

This guide, written by a Ready Health prescribing pharmacist, explains when to seek fertility advice, which investigations and treatments are available, and how to choose a clinic.

How common are fertility problems?

Fertility problems are common and affect both men and women. The main causes include problems with ovulation, reduced sperm quality, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes and endometriosis. In around a quarter of cases, no cause is found (unexplained infertility). Age is the biggest single factor for women, as egg numbers and quality fall over time, particularly after the mid-30s.

When should I seek fertility advice?

• After 12 months of regular unprotected sex (every 2 to 3 days) without conceiving
• Sooner if the woman is aged 36 or over
• Sooner if there is a known issue, such as irregular or absent periods, previous pelvic infection, endometriosis, previous cancer treatment, or testicular problems
• If you are a same-sex couple or single and planning treatment with donor sperm

Which fertility tests are usually done first?

Results should always be interpreted by a clinician, as a single result rarely gives the full picture.

What fertility treatments are available?

• Medicines to help ovulation: for some women who do not ovulate regularly, for example with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). These are prescription-only and a specialist decides whether they are suitable.
• Surgery: for example to treat endometriosis or blocked tubes in some cases.
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI): sperm is placed directly into the womb around ovulation.
• In vitro fertilisation (IVF): eggs are collected and fertilised in a laboratory, and an embryo is transferred to the womb.
• ICSI: a single sperm is injected into each egg, often used for male factor infertility.
• Donor eggs, sperm or embryos, and egg or embryo freezing.

Treatment is not guaranteed to succeed, and success rates depend heavily on age and the cause of infertility. IVF carries risks, including ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and multiple pregnancy.

Can I get fertility treatment on the NHS?

Yes, initial investigations are usually available through your GP. NICE guidance recommends that eligible women under 40 can be offered up to three full IVF cycles, but in practice access depends on criteria set by your local integrated care board (ICB), which can include age, BMI, smoking status and existing children. Many people therefore use private clinics, either for the whole process or for additional cycles.

How do I choose a fertility clinic?

• Check the clinic is licensed by the HFEA and read its latest inspection report
• Use the HFEA's "Choose a Fertility Clinic" tool to compare clinics
• Ask for a clear, written breakdown of all costs, including medicines, scans and storage
• Ask how success rates are reported and whether they apply to people of your age
• Be cautious about treatment "add-ons": the HFEA rates the evidence for each, and many have not been shown to improve the chance of having a baby
• Check what counselling and emotional support is available

Frequently asked questions

How long should we try before seeing a doctor?

Usually 12 months. See a GP sooner if the woman is 36 or over or if either of you has a known risk factor.

Should both partners be tested?

Yes. Male factors contribute to many cases, so a semen analysis is an early, simple test.

Can an AMH test tell me if I can get pregnant?

No. AMH gives an estimate of egg reserve and helps plan IVF, but it does not reliably predict natural fertility.

What lifestyle changes can help fertility?

Stopping smoking, keeping alcohol low, maintaining a healthy weight and, for women, taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily before conception all help.

Key takeaways

• Most couples conceive within a year; seek advice after 12 months, or earlier if 36 or over.
• Both partners should be assessed.
• NHS IVF access varies by local ICB criteria.
• Choose an HFEA-licensed clinic and be cautious of unproven add-ons.

Sources and further reading

• NHS: Infertility
• Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA)
• HFEA: Treatment add-ons
• NICE CG156: Fertility problems

Last reviewed: October 2026 by Shamir Patel, Independent Prescribing Pharmacist, Ready Health. This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own clinician.

If you are in Wigan, Standish or nearby and would like initial blood tests or advice, find out more about our blood tests and women's health services. We can help you understand your results and the next steps, including referral where appropriate.