HORMONAL CHECK

Hormones regulate almost every stage of the reproductive process: ovulation, egg maturation, preparation of the uterus for implantation, and the maintenance of pregnancy. Even small disturbances in hormone levels can significantly affect fertility. Hormone testing helps:

✅ to detect disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) ✅ to assess ovarian reserve ✅ to diagnose thyroid or pituitary problems ✅ to design a personalised assisted reproduction plan

Hormonal fertility testing usually involves blood tests in the first days of the cycle (usually day 2 – 5). Some of the main hormones tested are:

FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) – an indicator of ovarian function LH (luteinising hormone) – linked to ovulation Oestradiol (E2) – shows ovarian activity AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) – estimates ovarian reserve Prolactin – can affect ovulation Thyroid hormones (TSH, T3, T4) – thyroid disorders affect menstruation and pregnancy Testosterone and androgens – especially in cases of PCOS

In men, hormone tests such as FSH, LH, testosterone and prolactin help to understand the cause of possible oligospermia or azoospermia.

Hormone testing is recommended:

✅ for couples who have been trying for a child for more than 6–12 months without success ✅ for women with irregular or infrequent cycles ✅ before starting assisted reproduction (e.g. IVF) ✅ for women over 35 who want to check their ovarian reserve

Hormones and IVF Accurate hormone testing is essential for successful IVF. It allows the medication used for stimulation to be adjusted correctly, the right protocol to be chosen, and the ovarian response to be predicted.

Prolactin can affect fertility in several ways:

- In women: Raised prolactin can disrupt the menstrual cycle and reduce ovulation. These disturbances can prevent conception or lead to miscarriage.

- In men: Hyperprolactinaemia can cause reduced libido, erectile dysfunction and reduced sperm production, thereby affecting fertility.