Quick answer: A fertility check-up for couples tests both partners together. For the woman, it usually includes hormone blood tests (AMH, FSH, thyroid, prolactin), a pelvic ultrasound with antral follicle count and a tubal test. For the man, a semen analysis is the key test. Most results are ready within one or two cycles.
Key takeaways
- Fertility problems are roughly as likely to involve the male partner as the female partner, so both should be tested from the start.
- See a specialist after 12 months of trying if the woman is under 35, after 6 months if she is 35 to 39, and straight away if she is 40 or older.
- Core tests: AMH and day 2 to 5 hormones, transvaginal ultrasound, a tubal patency test and a semen analysis.
- Many tests are timed to the menstrual cycle, so the full work-up usually takes two to six weeks.
- Results guide the next step, which may be lifestyle changes, ovulation induction, IUI or IVF.
What is a fertility check-up and who should have one?
A fertility check-up is a structured set of consultations and tests that looks at the main requirements for conception: regular ovulation, healthy eggs, open fallopian tubes, a normal uterine cavity and healthy sperm. It is useful both for couples who are struggling to conceive and for those who simply want to plan ahead.
Infertility is usually defined as no pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. Around a third of cases involve a female factor, around a third a male factor, and the rest involve both partners or remain unexplained. That is why a good check-up always assesses the couple, not just the woman.
Consider an earlier check-up if you have
- Irregular, very painful or very heavy periods, or a diagnosis of PCOS or endometriosis
- Previous pelvic infection, ectopic pregnancy or pelvic surgery
- Two or more miscarriages
- For the male partner: undescended testes, testicular injury or surgery, mumps after puberty, a varicocele or erection or ejaculation problems
- Past cancer treatment, a known genetic condition or a plan to delay pregnancy
What happens at the first fertility consultation?
The first visit is mostly a conversation. The doctor takes a detailed history from both partners and plans the tests in the right order, so nothing is repeated unnecessarily.
- Menstrual and pregnancy history: cycle length, pain, previous pregnancies or losses.
- Medical and surgical history: thyroid disease, diabetes, infections, operations and current medicines.
- Lifestyle: weight, smoking, alcohol, work shifts, exercise and stress.
- Sexual history: frequency and timing of intercourse, and any difficulties.
A general and pelvic examination is usually done for the woman. The male partner may be examined if his history or semen results suggest a problem.
Which fertility tests are done for women?
Female tests check ovarian reserve, ovulation, the uterus and the tubes. Some must be done on particular days of the cycle.
| Test | What it shows | When it is done |
|---|---|---|
| AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) | An estimate of remaining egg supply (ovarian reserve) | Any day of the cycle |
| FSH, LH and oestradiol | How hard the brain is working to stimulate the ovaries | Day 2 to 5 of the period |
| TSH and prolactin | Thyroid and pituitary problems that can stop ovulation | Any day |
| Transvaginal ultrasound with antral follicle count (AFC) | Uterine shape, fibroids, polyps, ovarian cysts and the number of small follicles | Usually early in the cycle |
| Ovulation tracking (follicle scans or mid-luteal progesterone) | Whether and when you ovulate | Mid-cycle or about 7 days before the next period |
| HSG, HyCoSy or SSG | Whether the fallopian tubes are open and the cavity is normal | After the period stops, before ovulation |
Your doctor may also check haemoglobin, blood sugar, rubella immunity and infection screening (HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis). If PCOS is suspected, testosterone and a glucose test may be added. Hysteroscopy or laparoscopy is reserved for specific findings, such as a suspected polyp, septum, blocked tubes or endometriosis.
Which fertility tests are done for men?
A semen analysis is the single most important male fertility test. It is simple, non-invasive and should be done early, ideally before invasive tests for the woman.
- Semen analysis: volume, sperm concentration, motility (movement) and morphology (shape), assessed against WHO reference values. Abstain for 2 to 5 days before giving the sample.
- Repeat test: if the first result is abnormal, it is usually repeated after a few weeks, because results vary.
- Hormones: FSH, LH, testosterone and prolactin if the count is low or absent.
- Further tests when indicated: scrotal ultrasound, sperm DNA fragmentation, karyotype or Y-chromosome microdeletion testing, usually with a urologist or andrologist.
How do you prepare for a fertility check-up?
A little preparation makes the first visit far more productive.
- Note the first day of your last few periods, or bring your period-tracking app.
- Bring all previous reports, scan images and treatment records for both partners.
- Plan the semen sample after 2 to 5 days of abstinence.
- Start folic acid 400 micrograms daily if you are trying to conceive.
- Write down your questions, and come together if you can.
What do fertility check-up results mean?
Results are interpreted together, not in isolation. A low AMH, for example, predicts how the ovaries will respond to medicines but does not mean natural pregnancy is impossible.
- Ovulation problem (often PCOS or thyroid): usually treated with lifestyle changes and ovulation induction.
- Mild male factor or unexplained infertility: may suit IUI with or without ovulation medicines.
- Blocked tubes, severe male factor, low ovarian reserve or failed simpler treatment: usually points towards IVF or ICSI.
- All tests normal: called unexplained infertility. Age and duration of trying then guide the plan.
How much does a fertility check-up cost?
The cost depends on which tests are actually needed for you as a couple. As a broad, approximate guide, a basic couple work-up in Bengaluru has often been in the range of about ₹10,000 to ₹30,000, but this varies by centre and individual protocol, and goes up if advanced tests are needed.
- Consultation fees for both partners
- Blood tests (hormones, thyroid, infection screening)
- Ultrasound scans and follicle tracking
- Tubal testing (HSG or sonographic tubal test)
- Semen analysis and any repeat or advanced sperm tests
- Procedures such as hysteroscopy or laparoscopy, if required
Ask for an itemised plan before you start. Some health insurance policies cover diagnostic tests, but many do not cover fertility treatment, so check with your insurer.
When to see a gynaecologist
Do not wait for the 12-month mark if any of these apply:
- No periods, or cycles shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days
- Severe period pain, pain during sex or heavy bleeding
- A known history of PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids, pelvic infection or ectopic pregnancy
- Two or more miscarriages
- Woman aged 35 or above and trying for 6 months, or aged 40 or above
- A known male factor, such as a previous abnormal semen test
Seek urgent care for severe one-sided pelvic pain, fainting or heavy bleeding with a positive pregnancy test, as these can signal an ectopic pregnancy.
How Dr. Divya Venugopalan can help
Dr. Divya Venugopalan is a gynaecologist and fertility specialist in Bengaluru with more than 14 years of experience and a Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine (FRM). She evaluates both partners together, explains every result in plain language, and recommends the simplest treatment that is likely to work for you.
Depending on your results, next steps may include tubal testing, ovulation induction, IUI or IVF. If you are wondering how to choose a specialist, read our guide on choosing an IVF specialist in Bangalore.
She consults at Thanisandra, Sahakar Nagar and HRBR Layout in North Bengaluru. Book a fertility check-up or call +91 99459 26987.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a fertility check-up take?
The first consultation usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. Because some tests are timed to the menstrual cycle, the complete work-up for a couple generally takes two to six weeks.
Should both partners be tested at the same time?
Yes. Male factors contribute to a large share of infertility, and a semen analysis is quick and inexpensive. Testing both partners together avoids delays and unnecessary procedures for the woman.
Is the tubal test (HSG) painful?
Most women feel period-like cramps for a few minutes during an HSG or sonographic tubal test. A simple painkiller taken beforehand usually helps, and you can go home the same day.
Can I have a fertility check-up if I am not trying to conceive yet?
Yes. Testing ovarian reserve (AMH and antral follicle count) and a semen analysis can help couples plan when to try, or decide whether egg or sperm freezing is worth considering.
Does a low AMH mean I cannot get pregnant?
No. AMH reflects the number of eggs left, not their quality, and many women with low AMH conceive naturally. It does suggest you should not delay and helps your doctor plan treatment doses if needed.
Medically reviewed by: Dr. Divya Venugopalan, MBBS, DNB (OBG), FRM, FMAS. Gynaecologist & fertility specialist, Bengaluru (KMC Reg. No. 91293). Last reviewed: 27 October 2026.
This article is for general information and does not replace a personal consultation. In an emergency, visit the nearest hospital emergency department.
