You have been trying for a baby for months, maybe years. Someone says, “Go and do IVF.” Someone else says, “Pray and wait.” Both may be well-meaning, but there is a step many couples skip: finding out why it is not happening.

Fertility tests are the first real step. They do not commit you to treatment. They simply give you facts. Here are the main fertility tests in Lagos that couples are usually advised to do, and what each one tells you.

When should you get tested?

• Under 35: after 12 months of trying without success
• 35 and above: after 6 months
• At any age: sooner if you have irregular periods, known fibroids, a history of pelvic infection, previous miscarriages or surgery, or if your partner has had a sperm problem

Tests for the woman

1. Hormone tests.
Blood tests that check hormones related to ovulation, egg supply and the thyroid. They help explain irregular cycles and conditions like PCOS. Learn more about hormone testing.

2. Pelvic ultrasound.
A scan that looks at your womb and ovaries for fibroids, polyps, cysts and the number of small follicles. See what a pelvic ultrasound shows.

3. Ovarian reserve evaluation.
Tests that estimate how many eggs you have left. It is useful if you are over 35 or planning to wait. Read about ovarian reserve evaluation.

4. Hysterosalpingogram (HSG).
An X-ray test that checks whether your fallopian tubes are open and whether the shape of your womb is normal. Blocked tubes can exist without any symptoms. Find out how an HSG works.

5. Hysteroscopy or laparoscopy (only if needed).
If earlier tests suggest scar tissue, polyps, fibroids or endometriosis, your specialist may recommend a camera procedure to see inside. Hysteroscopy looks inside the womb, and laparoscopy looks at the outside of the womb, tubes and ovaries.

Tests for the man

Semen analysis.
A simple and painless test that checks sperm count, movement and shape. Male factors play a part in nearly half of infertility cases, yet many men are tested last. Please do not skip this one. Learn how a semen analysis works.

Tests many people forget

Thyroid tests. An underactive or overactive thyroid can disrupt ovulation and pregnancy. Read why the thyroid test should come first.

Infection screening. Past or untreated infections can affect the tubes and sperm. Your doctor will advise which tests apply.

Why test before jumping to IVF?

• You may not need IVF. Some couples only need ovulation medication, treatment of an infection or fibroid, or IUI.
• You save money. Treatment based on a clear diagnosis is less likely to waste time and money.
• You avoid blame. Results replace guessing and pointing fingers.
• If IVF is needed, you start prepared. Learn more about IVF and ICSI.

What happens after the tests?

You sit down with a specialist who explains your results in plain language and recommends the next step. That might be lifestyle changes, medication, a minor procedure, IUI or IVF. The decision is always yours.

Frequently asked questions

Does an HSG hurt?
It can cause cramping for a few minutes, similar to period pain. Your doctor will explain how to prepare.

Do both of us need to be tested?
Yes. Testing both partners from the start saves time.

Can I do some of these tests at a general hospital?
Yes. Hormone tests, scans and semen analysis are widely available. For interpreting results and planning treatment, a fertility specialist is best placed to guide you.

How long do the tests take?
Some are done in one visit. Others depend on your cycle, so your doctor will schedule them for you.

Are fertility tests expensive?
Costs vary by test. Ask for an itemised estimate. For IVF-related costs, see the financing options and patient support programs.

Take the next step

If you have been trying for a long time, or you suspect something is wrong, you do not have to wait any longer. Our fertility specialists at Doren-Gynaecare IVF Fertility Centre can guide you through testing and next steps, privately and compassionately.

👉 Book a fertility consultation
📞 Call: (+234) 707 575 2354 or 0816 716 3836
📍 8 Omoba S. Akinlolu St, Ibeju, Ajah, Lekki, Lagos

For general health, antenatal care and diagnostics, visit Doren Specialist Hospital or call +234 802 306 2100.