Infertility affects about 15% of couples of reproductive age in Ireland. Couples who have had regular unprotected intercourse for over 12 months without success are considered infertile. For women over 35, we recommend seeking assessment after just 6 months of trying. Infertility can affect either partner, so both men and women require evaluation.

During a fertility consultation, your doctor will take a detailed history, explore lifestyle and medical risk factors, and perform necessary examinations. Investigations include blood tests, imaging, and semen analysis depending on your situation.

Women:

• Day 2–5 cycle bloods (FBC, liver/kidney function, diabetes screen, prolactin, FSH, LH, thyroid, viral screen, AMH)
• Day 21 progesterone test
• Pelvic ultrasound

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Men:

• Semen analysis

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) indicates ovarian reserve (number of eggs left). It guides fertility planning but does not measure egg quality or guarantee natural conception. If no reversible cause is found, referral to a fertility specialist is arranged. Safe and effective fertility therapies are available to improve the chance of pregnancy.