Couples Fertility Assessment in London

Couples Fertility Assessment in London

A Complete Guide to Fertility Blood Testing for Both Partners

Author: Dr Lauren Holland, Clinical Lead – Marylebone Diagnostic Centre

Fertility is not just a female issue. It is also not only about age.

In many couples, delays happen because one partner is tested, not both.

Marylebone Couples Fertility Assessment is designed to assess both partners together, using targeted blood tests. This approach saves time and reduces uncertainty and stress.

What Is a Couples Fertility Assessment?

This is a combined fertility blood testing profile for couples. It assesses:

  • Female fertility markers
  • Male fertility markers
  • Hormonal balance
  • Metabolic and nutritional factors

It provides clarity before months of waiting or IVF referrals.

Why Test Both Partners Together?

Fertility challenges are shared. Clinical data shows:

  • ~40% female-related factors
  • ~40% male-related factors
  • ~20% combined or unexplained

Testing one partner gives an incomplete picture. Testing together supports:

  • Faster answers
  • Better planning
  • More informed decisions
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Female Fertility Blood Tests Explained

Female fertility is influenced by hormones, metabolism, and nutrition. The assessment includes the following key areas:

Female Fertility Markers Test What It Assesses
AMHOvarian reserveEgg quantity and fertility potential
FSH & LHEgg development and ovulationOvulation cycle regulation
OestradiolCycle healthHormonal cycle monitoring
ProlactinOvulation disruptionAssess ovulatory function
Thyroid hormonesHormone regulationCycle and fertility support
Iron profileEgg quality supportSupports reproductive health
VitaminsHormonal and metabolic supportSupports energy and cycle balance

Why These Tests Matter

  • Low AMH affects planning timelines
  • Thyroid imbalance may prevent ovulation
  • Iron deficiency affects egg quality
  • Hormonal imbalance can disrupt cycles
  • Many of these issues are correctable once identified

Male Fertility Blood Tests Explained

Male fertility depends on hormones, metabolism, and overall health. The assessment includes key male markers:

Male Fertility Markers Test Why It Matters
TestosteroneSperm productionSupports fertility and libido
SHBGHormone availabilityTestosterone effectiveness
FSH & LHTesticular functionRegulates sperm production
Metabolic markersSperm qualityOverall reproductive health
InflammationDNA damage riskIdentifies oxidative stress
Nutritional markersSperm developmentSupports sperm health

Why Male Blood Testing Is Often Missed

Many men are told semen analysis is enough. However, blood markers influence sperm health long before changes appear in semen results. Blood testing helps explain:

  • Poor sperm quality
  • Low motility
  • DNA fragmentation risk
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Fertility Blood Tests vs “Trying Naturally”

Waiting without testing can delay answers. Blood testing helps:

  • Identify silent issues
  • Optimise health earlier
  • Reduce months of uncertainty

It is especially helpful when:

  • Trying for 6–12 months
  • The female partner is over 30
  • There has been miscarriage
  • IVF is being considered

Fertility Blood Tests Before IVF

Many IVF clinics request blood tests after referral. However, early testing can be beneficial:

  • Better IVF preparation
  • Fewer cancelled cycles
  • More targeted treatment plans

Blood results also help patients ask informed questions.

When Should Couples Consider Testing?

You may benefit from testing if:

  • You have tried for 6–12 months
  • One partner is over 30
  • There is a history of miscarriage
  • You want a fertility baseline
  • You plan IVF or assisted conception

Early testing supports earlier action.

How This Assessment Is Different

Basic fertility checks Couples Fertility Assessment
One partner testedBoth partners tested
Limited markersMulti-system insight
ReactivePreventative
Delayed answersResults in 24 - 42 hours

What Happens After Testing?

Blood samples are taken at MDC. Results are delivered quickly. You receive:

  • Clear results
  • Insight into fertility health
  • Options for next steps
  • Additional tests can be added if needed
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Why Choose Marylebone Diagnostic Centre?

  • Central London location
  • Fast turnaround times
  • Consultant-led oversight
  • Discreet and private setting
  • Clear, patient-friendly reporting
  • All results meet the Marylebone High Standard

Our Thoughts: Fertility clarity reduces stress. Testing together supports better decisions.

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Marylebone Diagnostic Centre

📍 73 Baker Street, London W1U 6RD

🚇 5-minute walk from Baker Street tube

🕘 Monday–Saturday, 8:00–16:00

📞 +44 7495 970109

🌐 marylebonediagnosticcentre.com

Results within 24–42 hours depending on the test.

Frequently Asked Questions – Couples Fertility Assessment

The cost of fertility testing in the UK depends on what is included. Basic tests may cost a few hundred pounds. More comprehensive assessments can cost more, especially if testing both partners. Private couples fertility assessments usually include blood tests for hormones, metabolism, and nutrition. Some providers also add semen analysis or scans separately.

The most effective way is to test both partners together. This usually includes:

  • Female fertility hormones
  • Male fertility hormones
  • Thyroid function
  • Metabolic and nutritional markers

Testing together helps identify shared or combined factors earlier.

The NHS does not offer routine fertility screening for couples. Testing is usually offered only after:

  • A period of trying to conceive
  • Referral to a fertility clinic
  • Meeting specific eligibility criteria

Even then, testing may be limited to certain markers. Private testing allows couples to check fertility earlier and more comprehensively.

In London, fertility testing is available privately through diagnostic centres and fertility clinics. Private fertility blood tests allow:

  • Faster access
  • Broader testing
  • Preventative insight

Marylebone Diagnostic Centre offers blood-based fertility assessment for couples who want early clarity.

Couples’ fertility testing is available in many UK cities through private providers. The most important factor is not location, but whether both partners are assessed together. Testing both partners provides a clearer fertility picture than single-partner testing.

The NHS does not offer a routine couples fertility test. Testing is usually staged and symptom-led. Male and female partners are often assessed separately and later in the process. Private testing allows couples to assess fertility earlier.

Some home kits test limited markers, such as ovulation or sperm count. However, home tests:

  • Do not assess hormones fully
  • Do not check thyroid or metabolic health
  • Cannot replace blood-based testing

Blood tests provide a more accurate and comprehensive fertility assessment.

Costs vary depending on number of tests, whether one or both partners are tested, and whether follow-up tests are included. Private fertility testing in London can range from a few hundred pounds to over £1,000.

Common fertility blood tests for couples include:

  • Women: AMH, FSH & LH, Oestradiol, Thyroid hormones, Iron & vitamins
  • Men: Testosterone, FSH & LH, Metabolic markers, Inflammatory markers

Testing these together supports better planning.

Age affects fertility, but 37 is not “too late.” Many women conceive naturally or with support in their late 30s. However, fertility declines with age, so early testing is helpful. Blood tests help guide timelines and next steps more clearly.

Around 1 in 7 couples in the UK experience difficulty conceiving at some point. Fertility challenges are common and often involve both partners. Early testing helps reduce uncertainty.

NHS IVF eligibility varies by local area and clinical criteria. In some regions, having a partner with a child may affect eligibility. Criteria differ between NHS trusts. Private fertility testing can still be done regardless of IVF eligibility.

The best fertility test is one that:

  • Tests both partners
  • Includes hormone, thyroid, and metabolic markers
  • Provides clear results quickly

Blood-based testing offers more insight than single-marker or home tests.

Yes. Fertility testing is available privately across the UK, including Birmingham. However, couples often travel for providers that offer:

  • Comprehensive testing
  • Fast turnaround
  • Clear reporting

Couples may consider testing if:

  • Trying for 6–12 months
  • One partner is over 30
  • Planning pregnancy soon
  • There is a history of miscarriage
  • IVF is being considered

Early testing supports earlier decisions.

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