If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a while it may have crossed your mind to get a fertility test and your first thought may have been can I go to my GP for said testing. In this article we will look at the different routes you can take to get help if you are having trouble getting pregnant. It is usually recommended that both men and women seek help from a medical professional if they have been actively trying to conceive for a period of 12 months but without success.
There are a few different routes that you can take when it comes to getting fertility tests. If you want to take a fertility test you may first consider at-home fertility tests. Although on the surface, they seem like a straight-forward, affordable option, there is more to consider; at-home fertility tests are usually blood tests (for the Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) or Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH). Whilst these hormones are great indicators of fertility, they do not give the full picture. Let’s look at the at-home AMH test as an example. This test looks for AMH levels in the blood which indicates whether or not a woman’s ovarian reserve is average for her age. However, it will not pick up on if there is a physiological issue preventing conception such as blocked fallopian tubes. You can have good ovarian reserve, but if you have blocked fallopian tubes, you won’t be able to get pregnant without help. These types of tests also do not account for the male factor, which is a contributing factor in 30-40% of all infertility cases. Other options for fertility testing include either seeking help via your GP or privately.
Fertility testing is available on the NHS, but requires a referral from your GP. To be eligible you need to have been trying to get pregnant for a year or more. You may also face long wait times to be referred. Fertility is closely linked with age and so fertility is a very time-sensitive subject. We understand that with something as important as starting a family, you may prefer to get answers quicker. For individuals who are able to self-fund their fertility testing and want answers faster, you may prefer to pay privately for your fertility tests.
Whichever route you choose, your fertility doctor will see you for an initial consultation; they will discuss your medical history and will want to know in detail about your lifestyle, and conception efforts so far, including how often you have sex and how long you have been having unprotected sex. They will likely request or look at blood test results which will give them an idea of your fertility hormone levels, and will want to carry out ultrasound scans. They will usually also want to see semen analysis test results for the male partner to get a comprehensive overview of your fertility.
Information for couples who want private fertility testing
There are some clear benefits to having your fertility tests carried out at a private facility clinic these include:
Faster access to testing and consultations: Your fertility is incredibly important and your concerns will likely be playing on your mind. As such, getting peace of mind sooner rather than later may be a priority for you. Private fertility and IVF clinics offer shorter wait times and more flexible appointment scheduling than through public healthcare, both in terms of the fertility tests and the actual treatment, if any is required. No waiting months for appointments!
Ability to choose more comprehensive testing upfront: Whether you are looking for a fertility test for women or male fertility testing, the number of options available is extensive. By going to a private clinic means your fertility consultant can recommend any suitable tests that they think will help in diagnosing fertility issues. This includes tests that may not be available through the NHS.
Private care does not require a GP referral: When you see a private fertility doctor there is no need to wait for a GP referral; you can simply book an appointment at a time to suit you and your needs.
Greater control over the process and continuity of care: You will find that private fertility care offers a far greater choice in all aspects of care. From clinic location to fertility doctors, going private puts you in complete control of your future fertility and all aspects of your care.
Things to consider before going private
Before making any decisions, it is important to weigh up the cost implications associated with choosing private fertility treatment. When you speak to your fertility doctor you should ask them for a cost estimate to help you work out what costs you would be expecting. Many fertility clinics partner with finance companies to help shoulder the cost. We also recommend that you research your chosen clinic thoroughly including ensuring they are regulated and are a HFEA-licensed clinic.
How to decide what’s right for you
Private testing offers faster access and more flexibility but comes at a cost. You may already have an idea of the right choice for you, but many people will be unsure as to the right approach for them. When it comes to making decisions you should base your choices on your own individual circumstances and research. A good starting point is to consider your budget, age, timeline, and personal preferences such as what is important to you. If you like the idea of getting help earlier but have concerns about costs, it is worth bearing in mind that some clinics will offer one-off consultation and test packages. And remember, just because conception isn’t going to plan, doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily require expensive treatments such as IVF and ICSI to achieve your dream of starting or expanding your family.
