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These tests can not only help you understand your fertility and ability to conceive, but they can also help towards making life changing decisions around whether to delay having a baby until you feel the time is right.

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If you are not yet in a relationship, you may want to consider fertility preservation treatments or perhaps you decide to have treatment as a single person with the help of a donor. Whatever your situation, there are several tests available that can help you better understand your fertility status.

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These tests can range from a pelvic ultrasound scan, blood testing, egg, embryo or tissue freezing (fertility preservation), IVF (In-Vitro Fertilisation) and where necessary, surgery to remove Endometriosis, are an example of just few of the treatments and tests available to help improve symptoms of Endometriosis and natural conception.

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Consult with a fertility specialist

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A fertility specialist can assess your general health, family desires, medical history, alongside test results to best advise you on your fertility status.

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Pelvic ultrasound scan

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An ultrasound scan is an imaging technique which uses sound waves to create a clear view of the uterus and the ovaries. This test is often used to check for any physical changes or abnormalities such as ovarian cysts or any visible scar tissue.

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Blood test

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Blood tests can be used to assess your fertility status. This blood test will measure a hormone known as Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH), which will give you an idea about your ovarian reserve. Naturally as your age increases, your AMH levels decrease. These levels may also increase in those with Polycystic Ovaries (PCO) or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

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Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

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This X-ray examines the uterus and fallopian tubes to check for swelling, blockages, or any other problems likely to affect your fertility. This test is carried out in the radiology department where a dye is injected into the uterus which will pass into the fallopian tubes, allowing your doctor to see whether the uterus is normal or if the fallopian tubes are blocked. This procedure is usually carried out whilst you are awake, however it can also be carried out during surgery to remove Endometriosis.

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Chromopertubation

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This procedure is performed during a laparoscopy (keyhole surgery), often in conjunction with removing Endometriosis. Similar to the HSG (although more invasive), Chromopertubation involves inserting a substance dye into the fallopian tubes to check for any blockages and swelling. If the tubes are open, the substance dye will pass through the tubes into the pelvic cavity. If the tubes are blocked, the dye may not enter or drain which can be a good indicator of infertility, in which the fallopian tube will not allow the egg and sperm to meet.