Fertility

Happy couple embracing woman’s pregnancy outdoors in warm light.

It is estimated that 1 in 6 couples in Ireland experience difficulty conceiving. If you have been trying for pregnancy for over a year without success, fertility investigations may help identify any underlying issues and guide the next steps.

In some situations, it is advisable to begin investigations sooner — especially for women over 35 years of age, or where there is a history of pelvic infection, endometriosis, irregular periods, or previous testicular problems in men. In these cases, assessment after six months of trying is recommended.

As fertility issues can affect both men and women equally, we encourage assessment of both partners to ensure comprehensive sexual health advice.

Fertility Check at Seabury Medical

Initial Appointment

We recommend booking a 30-minute appointment for your initial fertility assessment. Where possible, we encourage both partners to attend, as fertility can involve factors affecting either or both partners. During this appointment, your GP will take a thorough history, which may include:

How long you have been trying to conceive
Menstrual cycle pattern and regularity
Previous pregnancies or fertility difficulties
Previous pelvic or testicular problems or surgery
Medical conditions and medications
Previous fertility investigations or treatment
Family history and relevant lifestyle factors
Any concerns regarding sexual health or difficulties with intercourse

Your GP will then discuss which investigations may be appropriate for you.

Blood Tests

Blood tests will be arranged as part of your fertility assessment.

Some blood tests can be taken on the day of your appointment, while others may need to be taken at a specific stage of the menstrual cycle to provide useful information.

Your GP will explain which tests you need and when they should be taken.

Not everyone will require the same tests, so your investigations will be tailored to your individual circumstances.

AMH

Following discussion with your GP, AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) testing may be considered in some circumstances.

AMH is a blood test that provides an indication of ovarian reserve. It is important to understand that AMH is not a test of whether you can or cannot become pregnant, and it needs to be interpreted alongside your age, medical history and other fertility investigations.

AMH testing is not included as part of the routine blood tests. If you and your GP decide that AMH testing would be useful, there is an additional charge, as the sample needs to be sent to an external laboratory.

Your GP will discuss whether AMH testing is appropriate for you before the test is arranged, including the additional cost.

Follow Up

Once your initial assessment and investigations have been completed, we recommend a follow-up appointment with your GP.

This gives you an opportunity to:

Review and explain your results
Discuss what the results may mean for your fertility
Consider whether any further investigations are appropriate
Discuss lifestyle or medical factors that may be relevant
Discuss referral to a specialist fertility service if appropriate
Answer any questions you may have

Fees

Initial Consultation: €150

Initial Consultation + Blood Tests x 2: €210

AMH: €140

AMH at time of other blood tests: €100