A female fertility test is often the first step women take when they want to understand their reproductive health more clearly. Whether you have been trying to conceive, are planning for the future, or simply want reassurance, a fertility test can provide valuable insight into how your body is functioning. In the UK, fertility blood tests are widely available through private clinics and offer a straightforward way to measure the hormones that play a central role in ovulation, ovarian reserve, and cycle regularity. Understanding what these blood tests for infertility measure — and what the results may indicate — helps you make informed decisions about your next steps.
A female fertility test typically involves a series of blood tests that measure key reproductive hormones including AMH, FSH, LH, oestradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and thyroid hormones. These fertility blood tests assess ovarian reserve, ovulatory function, and hormonal balance. Results are reported with reference ranges and can be shared with your healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
What Is a Female Fertility Test?
A female fertility test — sometimes referred to as a fertility check for women or fertility screening — is a collection of blood tests designed to evaluate the hormones that govern the reproductive system. A fertility test for women does not diagnose infertility on its own, but it provides measurable data about how key hormones are performing at a given point in time.
A female fertility check typically looks at several areas:
The purpose of fertility screening is to build a clear picture of your hormonal health so that you — and your healthcare provider — can identify any areas that may warrant further investigation. A female hormone profile blood test combines several of these markers into a single panel for convenience.
Essential Fertility Blood Tests for Women
When arranging fertility blood work, it helps to understand what each marker measures and why it matters. Below is a guide to the key blood tests for infertility that form the core of most female fertility screening panels. These fertility bloodwork markers are the ones most commonly requested by women exploring their reproductive health.
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
AMH is produced by the small follicles in the ovaries and provides an indication of ovarian reserve — essentially, the estimated number of eggs remaining. Unlike many other reproductive hormones, AMH can be tested at any point in the menstrual cycle, making it one of the most convenient fertility blood tests to arrange. An Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) blood test is available as a standalone test or as part of a wider panel.
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in the first half of the menstrual cycle. It is typically tested on day 2 or 3 of the cycle. Elevated FSH levels may be associated with diminished ovarian reserve, as the body produces more FSH when fewer follicles are available to respond. A Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) test provides this measurement.
LH (Luteinising Hormone)
LH triggers ovulation — the release of a mature egg from the follicle. A surge in LH mid-cycle is a normal part of the ovulatory process. Testing LH alongside FSH can help assess whether the ratio between these two hormones falls within expected ranges. A Luteinising Hormone (LH) test is usually performed early in the cycle.
Oestradiol (E2)
Oestradiol is the primary form of oestrogen and is produced by the developing follicles. It plays a key role in preparing the uterine lining for potential implantation. Oestradiol is typically measured alongside FSH on day 2 or 3 of the cycle to provide context for the FSH result.
Progesterone
Progesterone rises after ovulation and helps maintain the uterine lining during the luteal phase of the cycle. It is usually tested around day 21 (or 7 days after suspected ovulation) to confirm whether ovulation has occurred. A progesterone blood test is one of the most straightforward ways to assess ovulatory function.
Prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone primarily associated with milk production, but elevated levels outside of pregnancy or breastfeeding can interfere with ovulation. High prolactin may be associated with irregular or absent periods. A prolactin blood test can help identify whether levels are within the expected range.
Thyroid Hormones (TSH, Free T4, Free T3)
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and has a significant influence on reproductive health. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can affect menstrual regularity and ovulation. A thyroid function blood test is commonly included in comprehensive fertility screening.
Fertility Blood Test Reference Ranges
| Marker | What It Measures | When It Is Tested | General UK Reference Range | What Changes May Be Associated With |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AMH | Ovarian reserve (estimated egg count) | Any day of cycle | 5.4–25.0 pmol/L (age-dependent) | Low values may be associated with reduced ovarian reserve |
| FSH | Follicle stimulation | Day 2–3 of cycle | 3.5–12.5 IU/L (follicular phase) | Elevated levels may indicate diminished ovarian reserve |
| LH | Ovulation trigger | Day 2–3 of cycle | 2.4–12.6 IU/L (follicular phase) | Elevated LH:FSH ratio may be associated with hormonal variation |
| Oestradiol (E2) | Follicle development and uterine lining | Day 2–3 of cycle | 46–607 pmol/L (follicular phase) | Low levels may indicate reduced follicular activity |
| Progesterone | Ovulation confirmation | Day 21 (or 7 days post-ovulation) | >16 nmol/L suggests ovulation | Low levels may be associated with anovulatory cycles |
| Prolactin | Milk production hormone | Any day (fasting, morning preferred) | 102–496 mIU/L | Elevated levels may interfere with ovulation |
| TSH | Thyroid regulation | Any day | 0.27–4.20 mIU/L | Abnormal levels can influence menstrual regularity |
Reference ranges are approximate and may vary between laboratories. Results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider in the context of your individual health.
Fertility Screening Tests vs At Home Fertility Test
With the growing availability of at home fertility test kits, many women now have the option to check fertility at home without visiting a clinic. Both routes have their merits, and understanding the differences can help you choose the approach that suits your circumstances.
At home fertility test kits typically involve a finger-prick blood sample that you collect yourself and post to a laboratory. They offer convenience and privacy, and many kits now cover markers such as AMH, FSH, and thyroid hormones. However, there are some considerations:
Clinic-based fertility screening involves a standard venous blood draw performed by a trained phlebotomist. This approach offers:
Both options serve a valuable purpose. A fertility home test for women may be ideal if you want an initial check before deciding on further testing, while a clinic-based approach provides a more thorough evaluation. Private Blood Tests London offers a female hormonal health screening that combines multiple fertility-related markers into one comprehensive panel.
Fertility Test for Couples – When Should Both Partners Test?
Fertility is not solely a female concern. When a couple is experiencing difficulty conceiving, factors on both sides can contribute. A fertility test for couples typically includes female hormone testing alongside a male hormone assessment.
For men, relevant blood tests may include:
An infertility test that looks at both partners provides a more balanced picture. In many cases, lifestyle factors, hormonal variations, or underlying health markers on either side may contribute to the challenge. Testing both partners early can help identify where attention may be needed.
Private Blood Tests London offers hormone panels for both women and men, allowing couples to arrange their fertility blood work together at a time that suits them.
How to Get a Fertility Test in the UK
If you are wondering how to get a fertility test, the process through a private clinic is straightforward. A fertility check in the UK does not require a GP referral when arranged privately, and you can typically book an appointment within a few days.
Here is what the process looks like at Private Blood Tests London:
No consultation, diagnosis, or treatment is provided as part of the blood testing service. Private Blood Tests London provides laboratory analysis and clear results reports only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a female fertility test?
A female fertility test typically includes blood tests for AMH, FSH, LH, oestradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and thyroid hormones. These markers assess ovarian reserve, ovulatory function, and hormonal balance. The exact panel may vary depending on the provider and the package selected.
Can I do a fertility test at home?
Yes, at home fertility test kits are available and usually involve a finger-prick blood sample. They can measure markers such as AMH and FSH. However, clinic-based venous testing is generally considered more reliable due to larger sample volumes and professional collection technique.
Are fertility blood tests accurate?
Fertility blood tests processed by accredited laboratories are generally accurate and reliable. Venous blood samples collected at a clinic tend to provide the most consistent results. Timing of the test within your menstrual cycle can affect certain markers, so it is important to follow any guidance provided.
When should I get a fertility check?
Many women choose to arrange a fertility check from their late twenties onwards, particularly if they are planning to conceive in the future. If you have been trying to conceive for 12 months or more without success (or 6 months if over 35), a fertility screening may help identify any areas to discuss with your healthcare provider.
How long does fertility bloodwork take?
The blood draw itself takes just a few minutes. Results are typically available within 3 to 5 working days, depending on the markers tested. AMH and some hormone panels may take slightly longer due to specialised laboratory processing.
Can fertility screening detect infertility?
Fertility screening blood tests cannot diagnose infertility on their own. They measure hormone levels that are associated with reproductive function and can highlight areas where values fall outside expected ranges. These results provide useful information to share with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Do I need a referral for a fertility test UK?
No. You do not need a GP referral to book a private fertility test in the UK. You can arrange your appointment directly with a private clinic such as Private Blood Tests London and receive your results without a referral.
Conclusion
A female fertility test provides a clear, measurable window into the hormones that underpin reproductive health. Whether you are actively trying to conceive, planning ahead, or simply want reassurance about your hormonal balance, fertility blood tests offer a practical starting point. Understanding your AMH, FSH, LH, progesterone, and other key markers gives you data that can guide informed conversations with your healthcare provider.
Early and proactive fertility screening allows you to understand your body on your own terms. If you would like to arrange a fertility test, Private Blood Tests London offers comprehensive hormone panels at our South Kensington clinic with flexible appointment times and results delivered within a few working days.
*This content has been reviewed for clinical accuracy by our laboratory team at Private Blood Tests London.*
*This article is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.*