Fertility

Infertility is generally described as the inability to become pregnant after one year of regular intercourse. 1 in 6 Australian couples will experience infertility. 85% of couples will conceive within the first year of actively trying.

Investigations may include blood tests to assess:

  • Basic reproductive hormones

  • Thyroid function

  • Prolactin

  • PCOS bloods

  • Anti-Mullerian Hormone (egg count)

In cases of recurrent miscarriage, ie more than three consecutive miscarriages:

  • Thrombophilia screening

  • Glucose, haemoglobin A1C

  • Karyotype (for you and your partner)

  • Coeliac serology

  • ANA

Other investigations include:

  • Semen analysis

  • Occasionally other tests of sperm integrity, ie DNA sperm fragmentation

  • Ovulation testing

  • Hysterosalpingogram

  • (Natural killer cells)

  • Hysteroscopy/D&C/laparoscopy, with or without diathermy/excision of endometriosis/dye studies. Treating mild to moderate endometriosis and flushing your tubes, this can result in an increase in your fertility rate.

  • Couple cradling baby bump following successful fertility treatment

    Treatments

    Treatment may include induction agents, ie Clomid and Letrozole and/or assisted conception.

    There are two units in Newcastle (Genea and Hunter IVF). HunterIVF Lite, which some couples are suitable for, is more affordable.

    There are also many low cost units in Sydney, see resources.

  • Woman smiling after receiving advice to optimise her fertility

    Optimising Fertility

    Fertility is optimised if your BMI is within the normal range, both with and without assisted conception. Even if there is a 5% reduction in weight, this can result in a significant improvement in your fertility.

  • Woman with PCOS exercising

    Fertility & PCOS

    I completed my Medical Doctorate, ‘The Role of Insulin Sensitising Agents in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome’ at The University of Glasgow in 2005. 70% of patients with PCOS are overweight. There are many different avenues to help reduce your weight in a healthy, supportive environment. This includes weight loss programs, medication, and accessing a dietitian, see resources.