Fertility tests on the rise as couples identify problems in advance

July 27, 2010 - PRLog -- Couples are turning to fertility tests to help them monitor their fertility levels and predict their chances of successful pregnancies in the future, according to a new survey.

In the Manchester Fertility Services poll, 73% of people surveyed said they would consider a ‘Fertility MOT’ test to see how fertile they are and highlight in advance any problems which could make it difficult to conceive naturally.

Professor Brian Lieberman, founder of Manchester Fertility Services, says: “It’s reassuring that the overwhelming majority of people in our survey are prepared to find out in advance whether they might have a fertility problem. They might not be planning to have children now, but they’re at least taking steps to see if they’ll need fertility treatment or not in future.

“The results of the tests obviously have huge implications, but it helps couples decide how long they can delay a family. If they know they will need help conceiving, they will at least be prepared, and it won’t come as a nasty shock.”

Professor Lieberman says the ‘Fertility MOT’ test is particularly useful for couples who don’t want to have families until in their 30s.

He adds: “Usually, GPs refer couples for further investigation when they’ve not fallen pregnant after a year or more. If the couple are already in their 30s before they even start trying for a baby, any delay can further reduce their chances of treatment success, due to declining fertility rates as we age.

“This is why ‘Fertility MOTs’ are such a good idea. If you know you need help in future, perhaps your partner has a low sperm count or you may have ovulation problems, you may decide to have your family earlier in life to maximise your chances of success.”

Fertilty MOT tests, offered by private fertility clinics such as Manchester Fertility Services, involve a series of simple tests for both men and women. These include ovarian reserve and hormone level tests, pelvic ultrasound scans and semen analysis.

Most couples who undergo a Fertility MOT test have completed it within one menstrual cycle. A full written report and consultation is given to all couples once tests have been completed, with full explanation of the implications of the results.

Fertility MOT tests cost £925 per couple for full screening. Testing can also be taken individually. For more information, visit www.manchesterfertility.com/treatments or www.fertilitymot.com

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Manchester Fertility Services has grown since its launch more than 24 years ago to become one of the most successful infertility clinics in the UK. Founded by Professor Brian Lieberman, who established the first NHS IVF unit in the UK, we have celebrated over 3,000 babies born to date thanks to the skill and dedication of our staff.