Thinking About Fertility Testing? Here’s What to Expect During a Fertility Assessment
When couples start planning for a baby, one of the first questions that often comes up is: What does Fertility Assessment entail? Whether you have been trying to conceive for a while or simply want to understand your reproductive health better, a fertility assessment provides clear and reliable answers.
Many people feel nervous before their first fertility appointment because they imagine a complicated or uncomfortable process. But the truth is that fertility testing is simple, structured, and designed to guide you with clarity. At The Bridge Clinic, a trusted Fertility Clinic in Nigeria, the entire evaluation is explained step by step so you always know what is happening and why.
The more you understand what to expect, the more confident you will feel going into your evaluation. This guide walks you through every part of a fertility assessment, explains the purpose behind each test, and shows you what happens afterward. By the end, you will know exactly how fertility testing works and why it is one of the most valuable steps you can take on your path to parenthood.
What Is a Fertility Assessment?
A fertility assessment is a detailed medical evaluation that checks how likely you are to conceive. It looks at your reproductive organs, hormone levels, and overall health to identify anything that might make pregnancy difficult.
A complete fertility assessment usually includes:
- A review of medical and reproductive history;
- Physical examinations;
- Hormonal blood tests;
- Imaging studies like ultrasound; and
- Specialized tests for both women and men.
The goal is not only to diagnose problems but also to help you understand your fertility timeline, your risks, and the best treatment options.
Who Should Get a Fertility Assessment?
Some people wait too long before seeking testing, often due to fear or assumptions. But early testing can save time, reduce anxiety, and increase chances of success.
You should consider a fertility assessment if:
You have been trying to conceive without success
- Under age 35: 12 months of trying
- Over age 35: 6 months of trying
- Over age 40: consider testing immediately
Your menstrual cycle is irregular
This could mean you are not ovulating regularly.
You have a history of pelvic infections or STIs
These can affect your fallopian tubes.
You or your partner have known medical conditions
PCOS, thyroid disease, diabetes, endometriosis, and past surgeries can affect your fertility.
You have had multiple miscarriages
Testing helps uncover possible causes.
You want to plan ahead
People who want to freeze their eggs or sperm often begin with a fertility evaluation.
There is a family history of early menopause
This may signal reduced ovarian reserve.
Even if you are not ready for pregnancy yet, fertility testing can give you helpful information for future decisions.
What Fertility Assessment Entails for Women
Women’s fertility testing is more extensive because conception depends on ovulation, the uterus, hormonal health, and the fallopian tubes. Each test gives important information.
1. Review of Medical and Reproductive History
This discussion forms the foundation of your assessment. Your specialist will ask about:
- Age and menstrual cycle regularity
- Pregnancy history
- Past contraceptive use
- Sexual history
- Family history of infertility
- Pelvic pain, heavy periods, or irregular bleeding
- Lifestyle habits such as smoking or exercise
- Any medications you take
Don’t worry about saying the “right thing.” The goal is simply to understand your body and your journey so far.
2. Physical and Pelvic Exam
Your doctor may perform a gentle pelvic exam to check for:
- Structural abnormalities
- Fibroids
- Signs of infection
- Tenderness suggesting endometriosis
They may also check your thyroid, weight, and blood pressure, as these can affect fertility.
3. Hormone Blood Testing
Hormones control ovulation, egg development, and menstrual cycles. Blood tests measure levels that help predict fertility.
Common hormone tests include:
- AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Shows how many eggs you have left.
- FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): Higher levels may indicate lower ovarian reserve.
- LH (Luteinizing Hormone): Helps track ovulation.
- Estradiol: Indicates ovarian activity.
- Progesterone: Confirms whether ovulation has happened.
- Prolactin: High levels can stop ovulation.
- Thyroid hormones: Thyroid issues often affect fertility.
These tests usually occur within the first few days of your cycle for accurate results.
4. Ultrasound Scan
A transvaginal ultrasound provides a clear view of your reproductive organs.
It checks:
- Uterus size and shape;
- Fibroids or polyps;
- Ovarian health;
- Ovarian cysts or signs of PCOS; and
- Antral Follicle Count (AFC), which predicts egg quantity
Ultrasound is painless and only takes a few minutes.
5. Fallopian Tube Testing: HSG or HyCoSy
The fallopian tubes must be open for sperm and egg to meet.
HSG (Hysterosalpingography)
This is an X-ray test where dye is injected through the cervix to see if tubes are blocked.
HyCoSy (Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography)
A similar test but done with ultrasound instead of X-ray.
Blocked tubes can result from:
- Past infections;
- Endometriosis;
- Surgeries; or
- Adhesions.
Knowing tube status helps determine whether IUI or IVF is more suitable.
6. Additional Female Fertility Tests
These are done only if needed:
- Hysteroscopy (camera inside uterus)
- Sonohysterogram (saline ultrasound)
- Genetic testing for ovarian reserve
- Autoimmune testing
- Laparoscopy for severe endometriosis
What Fertility Assessment Entails for Men
Male infertility is just as common as female infertility, so testing both partners is important.
1. Medical History
You may discuss:
- Past illnesses;
- Injuries to the testicles;
- Surgeries;
- Smoking or alcohol use;
- Sexual function;
- Medication or drug use.
2. Semen Analysis
This is the core test for men. It checks:
- Sperm count;
- Motility (movement);
- Morphology (shape); and
- pH and volume.
A semen analysis gives quick, valuable information. Sometimes two or three tests are needed because sperm quality can change from month to month.
3. Hormone Testing
Hormones like testosterone, FSH, and LH help determine whether sperm problems are caused by hormone imbalance.
4. Scrotal Ultrasound
If structural issues, blockages, or varicocele are suspected, an ultrasound helps confirm the diagnosis.
5. Additional Tests
If sperm results are abnormal, doctors may do:
- Sperm DNA fragmentation test;
- Genetic tests;
- Infection screening.
How Long Does the Entire Fertility Assessment Process Take?
Most people finish testing in 1 to 2 weeks, but some tests require specific timing in the menstrual cycle.
Here’s a general timeline:
- Blood tests: Day 2 to 5.
- Ultrasound: anytime, sometimes during cycle.
- HSG: after menstruation.
- Semen analysis: same week as ordered.
Results are usually available within 1 to 3 weeks.
Understanding Your Fertility Assessment Results
Your doctor will combine all results to create a complete picture of your fertility. You may learn:
- You have a good ovarian reserve;
- Ovulation is irregular but treatable;
- Fallopian tubes are blocked;
- The uterus has fibroids or polyps;
- Sperm count or movement is low; or
- Hormones need balancing;
Sometimes tests come back normal for both partners, resulting in a diagnosis of unexplained infertility. Even then, treatments like IUI or IVF can significantly improve chances.
What Happens After Fertility Testing?
Your doctor will create a personalized plan. This may include:
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Improving diet.
- Managing weight.
- Sleeping better.
- Reducing stress.
Medication
- Ovulation-stimulating drugs.
- Thyroid treatment.
- Hormone balancing.
Procedures
- Treating fibroids or polyps.
- Addressing blocked tubes.
- Treating infections.
Assisted Reproductive Options
- IUI for mild infertility.
- IVF for complex issues.
- ICSI for male factor infertility.
- Egg or sperm freezing for future fertility.
The plan depends entirely on your results and your goals.
Emotional Side of Fertility Testing
Fertility assessments can trigger many emotions:
- Anxiety while waiting for results.
- Fear of discovering a problem.
- Relief when things finally make sense.
- Stress from comparing yourself to others.
- Sadness after difficult news.
These feelings are normal. Many couples find comfort in counseling, support groups, and compassionate medical teams.
Why a Fertility Assessment Is Worth It
Waiting does not help fertility challenges. Testing early can:
- Prevent wasted time;
- Identify age-related decline early;
- Offer treatment when success rates are higher;
- Reduce emotional stress; and
- Protect future fertility.
Knowledge empowers you. The sooner you know your reproductive health, the more options you have.
Fertility Assessment at The Bridge Clinic
The Bridge Clinic provides one of the most comprehensive fertility evaluation programs in Nigeria. As a leading Fertility Clinic in Nigeria, Our team delivers a full range of services designed to support you at every stage of your fertility journey.
We offer:
- Advanced imaging and laboratory services.
- Experienced fertility specialists who understand your unique needs.
- Personalized treatment plans based on your results.
- Supportive counseling throughout your fertility journey.
- Access to modern fertility treatments, including IUI and IVF.
- Clear and transparent explanations of every step.
Our goal is to give you answers, support, and hope so you can move forward with confidence.
Final Thoughts
A fertility assessment is one of the most important steps toward understanding your reproductive health. Whether you have been trying to conceive for some time or simply want to prepare for the future, this evaluation provides clarity and direction. The process is simple, structured, and designed to guide you toward the best possible outcome.
If you are considering fertility testing, The Bridge Clinic is here to help. To learn more or book your fertility assessment at a trusted Fertility in Clinic Nigeria, contact us today and speak with one of our specialists. Your journey to parenthood begins with understanding your fertility, and we are ready to support you every step of the way.
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