Understanding Your Fertility: A Guide to Your First
Taking the first step in your fertility journey can feel a little overwhelming and unfamiliar. At Alpha IVF Singapore, we’re here to walk this journey with you, to guide you through each test and help you understand how it fits into your personal plan, whether you’re exploring IVF or elective egg freezing.
Here is a simple overview of the tests and scans commonly done during a first fertility assessment, and how each one supports your reproductive health. We hope this roadmap helps you feel a little more assured, informed, and confident as you take your first step forward.
1. Semen Analysis
For couples, fertility involves both partners, so a semen analysis is an essential part of the assessment for the male partner.
What this test helps with:
- Measures sperm count
- Assesses how well sperm move
- Evaluates sperm shape and structure
- Helps identify possible male-factor fertility issues
- This test provides valuable information about sperm health of the male partner.
2. AMH Test (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
The AMH test is a blood test that provides information about your ovarian reserve (egg count). Ovarian reserve refers to the estimated number of eggs you may have left.
What this test helps with:
- Gives insight into your reproductive timeline
- Helps the doctor understand how your ovaries may respond to fertility medication
- Supports personalised planning for your fertility treatment
- This test is fast, does not require fasting, and can be done at any time of the menstrual cycle.
3. Pelvic Ultrasound
A pelvic ultrasound is a detailed fertility scan that provides a clearer view of the reproductive organs. It is commonly used during fertility assessments as it helps doctors evaluate important aspects of reproductive health.
What this scan helps with:
- Evaluating ovarian follicles
- Measuring the Antral Follicle Count (AFC) – the number of small resting follicles seen in each ovary. AFC helps indicate ovarian reserve and is often assessed together with the AMH test
- Assessing the endometrial (uterine) lining
- Detecting small fibroids, cysts, or other structural conditions
- Identifying factors that may affect ovulation or implantation
Pelvic ultrasound can be performed using different approaches depending on each patient’s situation. The most suitable approach will be determined based on:
- Your symptoms
- Your medical history
- The level of detail needed for assessment
- Your fertility treatment plan (such as IVF or elective egg freezing)
4. Consultation with a Fertility Specialist
After the tests and scans, you will meet with our fertility specialists for a detailed review.
What this consultation helps with:
- Understanding your test results
- Learning what the findings mean for your fertility
- Receiving personalised treatment plan
- Asking questions and clarifying concerns
- Planning next steps that feel right for your situation
This conversation helps you and your partner understand your reproductive health clearly and comfortably.
Your First Visit: A Step Toward Clarity and Confidence
A fertility assessment is more than just a series of tests. It is an opportunity to understand your body better and gain insight into the factors that may influence your reproductive plans. Just like your annual health checkups, caring for your fertility health is an important part of looking after your overall wellbeing.
Ready for fertility assessment? Click here to schedule an appointment.
