Couple Fertility Check

Couple fertility testing is the first step to clearly understand why a pregnancy is delayed. It does not concern only the woman or only the man, but examines fertility as a common hypothesis of the couple, with the aim of the correct diagnosis and planning of the appropriate therapeutic approach.

What does testing the woman involve

Female control aims to evaluate key factors that affect conception, such as ovulation, hormonal function, the condition of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes.

It can usually include:

  • Medical and gynecological history, recording of the cycle and previous pregnancies or miscarriages.
  • Hormonal control, such as AMH, FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin and thyroid function.
  • Ultrasound and uterine and ovary.
  • Ovarian reserve estimate.
  • Ovulation control.
  • Control of fallopian tubes, when deemed necessary, with special imaging tests.

The choice of exams should not be made formally or mass, but based on the age, history, duration of efforts and the special characteristics of each case.

What does testing the man include

Male fertility is an equally important part of the investigation. In several cases, the difficulty of conception may be related to sperm parameters, hormonal factors, previous infections, varicocele or other conditions.

The basic test usually includes a sperm count, which evaluates the number, motility and morphology of the spermatozoa. Depending on the findings, further andrological or urological evaluation, hormonal testing, ultrasound or more specialized tests may be needed. The AUA/ASRM guidelines point out that the male assessment should be part of the overall investigation of the infertile couple.

Why is it important to test thoroughly

Proper fertility control is not just about "finding a problem". The goal is to create a complete picture so that the couple knows what their real choices are and which plan makes sense to follow.

In some cases, monitoring of the cycle and guidance for natural conception may be sufficient. In others, pharmaceutical support, insemination, IVF or a more specialized therapeutic approach may be suggested. Unexplained infertility, for example, is considered a diagnosis of exclusion, i.e. it occurs after basic female and male factors have been evaluated.

personalized approach

Each couple has a different story, different medical background and different needs. That is why the fertility check must be done with care, without unnecessary tests, but also without delays that can cost you valuable time.

Proper investigation helps the couple to make decisions with safety, knowledge and realistic expectations. It is the point from which a meaningful, scientifically documented and personally tailored fertility plan begins.

If you're trying to get pregnant without a result, or you want to have a clear picture of your fertility, a couple's fertility test can give you the answers you need and guide you to the right next steps.

Ioannis A. Sklavounos MD MSC DFFP
Obstetrician Surgeon Gynecologist
Specialists & Retrained in Great Britain
T.Senior Clinical Fellow – Liverpool Woman’s Hospital UK

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