Have you been actively trying to conceive without success? You are not alone. Increasingly more couples face fertility challenges. That is why we recommend comprehensive female fertility test services for anyone hoping to start a family. Thanks to technological advancements in reproductive medicine, fertility screening has become more accurate and reliable than ever. When conducted early in your conception journey, possible fertility struggles may come to light, allowing a smoother process with an individualised, direct approach and improved outcomes.
The importance of female fertility testing
Did you know that 1 in 6 couples struggle to conceive, with 30-40% being dependent on female factors? For this reason, early fertility tests for females are essential to provide quicker and better results. Fertility tests help identify potential barriers to conception, guide future treatments, and improve chances of a successful pregnancy.
Once women reach the age of 40, egg quantity and quality decrease significantly. Fertility assessments can detect this age-related decline and test ovarian reserve, thyroid functions, prolactin, and ovulation problems to help you better plan your next steps. Moreover, fertility screening can identify common fertility issues such as fallopian tube damage or blockage, PCOS, and endometriosis. But fertility testing isn’t only for women struggling to conceive; those considering egg freezing to plan for the future are just as welcome to complete early tests.
Knowing this at the beginning stages may reduce emotional, mental, and financial stress as potential fertility treatments can be targeted, possibly allowing you to reach your dream of parenthood sooner.
What are the types of female fertility tests?
Our bulk-billed fertility tests, with a fertility GP, are particularly recommended for women who have been trying to conceive for between 6 to 12 months, but our team is happy to speak with you at any time. Depending on your individual circumstances, your fertility specialist may suggest a range of tests at the start of your journey with us.
AMH test (Anti-Mullerian Hormone)
An AMH test is a simple blood test, conducted at any stage of your cycle, to measure your ovarian reserve, the number of your remaining eggs. Higher levels of AMH typically indicate a greater number of eggs. However, it is important to know that this fertility test cannot give any information about egg quality. The only true measure of egg quality comes during IVF, when eggs are collected and assessed in a lab for maturity and chromosomal health.
FSH blood test (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
The blood test to assess your FSH level must be conducted at the start of your cycle, usually on day 3. FSH helps control your menstrual cycle and stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. High FSH levels indicate your ovaries are working harder to produce eggs, which may suggest a lower ovarian reserve.
LH blood test (Luteinizing Hormone)
A Luteinizing Hormone lab test​ is completed mid-cycle, around day 12-14, and examines the LH surge that triggers ovulation. This test helps to establish if and when you are ovulating.
Oestradiol blood test
Typically conducted on day 3 of your menstrual cycle, the oestradial blood test measures the level of oestradial, the strongest form of oestrogen (the primary female sex hormone), in your blood. Oestrogen is produced by ovarian follicles as they grow. It thickens the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy. This test gives an insight into your oestrogen production and may help diagnose PCOS, ovarian failure, and pituitary gland disorders.
Progesterone test
A progesterone blood test​ may be recommended approximately one week after your expected ovulation, typically on day 21. Progesterone is produced by your ovary after you ovulate and plays a key role in maintaining the endometrial lining to welcome a fertilised egg. This test screens to confirm ovulation occurred.
Prolactin blood test
Abnormal levels of prolactin, a hormone made by the pituitary gland, can influence your menstrual cycle and stop ovulation by lowering oestrogen and progesterone. Its primary function is to stimulate breast milk production after childbirth, but it may also signal hidden fertility problems. A prolactin blood test can be finalised at any stage of your cycle.
TSH blood test (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
TSH is produced in the thyroid to regulate your metabolism. A TSH blood test helps detect thyroid issues that may cause irregular cycles, anovulation, difficulty conceiving, or miscarriage, and may be completed at any time of your menstrual cycle.
Genetic diseases
If you have experienced recurrent miscarriage or a genetic condition that runs in your family, we may recommend having a blood test done to check for chromosome abnormalities. If positive, your fertility specialist may suggest our genetic screening and testing options, such as Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis or Pre-implantation Genetic Screening.
Preparation & standard procedure for tests
Fertility screening starts with an initial consultation with one of our friendly fertility specialists. For accurate cycle-based results, you may be asked to stop birth control if you haven’t already. Alcohol and caffeine intake don’t affect the tests directly, although lifestyle factors do impact your overall fertility health. Always let your specialist know what medications you are taking, as some can affect prolactin and hormone levels, providing inaccurate results.
Once you are ready, the recommended blood tests are collected. Some tests can be done at any stage, others must be cycle-timed; your specialist will let you know when to complete the tests. Fasting before the blood test is generally not required.
Post test results & next steps
The blood test results are entered into a secure electronic medical record that both the GP and specialists can access. Typically, basic hormone level tests (e.g. FSH, LH, oestradiol, progesterone, prolactin, TSH) have a turnaround of 24–48 hours. AMH test results may take a little longer, sometimes up to 7 days. Once the results are in, your specialist will discuss your next steps to achieve your dream of having a family. If irregularities are found, your plan of action may include medical treatment, egg freezing, or assisted reproduction.
FAQs
How much do female fertility tests cost?
Fertility testing expenses can vary depending on the type of tests required, your medical history, and your specialist’s recommendations. In Australia, Medicare rebates cover common hormone tests such as FSH, LH, Oestradiol, Progesterone, Prolactin, and TSH. Genetic Carrier Screening for conditions like CF, SMA, and FXS is also fully rebated (once per lifetime), while expanded genetic panels are only partially covered. An AMH test is not rebated and typically costs around $100 out-of-pocket. If you have any concerns about the total fee, our caring team is here to help.
Get tested today at Genea Fertility
Have you been trying to conceive for some time? Or would you like to have a better insight into your fertility health for your future family? Our caring and talented team at Genea Fertility is ready to help you get started with your fertility screening tests today. Book an initial consultation, ask for more information, or schedule your fertility assessment and feel confident towards your next step in achieving your dream of having a family.
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