22/01/2026
Fertility can feel really overwhelming to navigate, but a good starting point is almost always getting some blood tests done. Until you have done this, you do not have a clear picture of how your hormones are interacting, and skipping this step can lead to wasted time, unnecessary costs, and added emotional stress.
Test 1: Day 3 blood tests
These typically include FSH, LH, oestradiol (E2), prolactin, SHBG, testosterone, and TSH. Some people may also need additional markers tested, such as thyroid antibodies, depending on their history and symptoms.
Test 2: Progesterone blood test (often referred to as “day 21”)
This test helps confirm whether ovulation has occurred. It is important to remember that day 21 assumes a 28 day cycle. If your cycle is shorter or longer, the test should be done around 7 days after predicted ovulation, rather than automatically on day 21.
Male testing is also really important, particularly for different s*x couples. A semen analysis is less invasive for a man than blood testing is for a woman, and male factor fertility contributes equally to the overall fertility picture. For that reason, a semen test is often one of the simplest and most logical places to start when beginning to rule things out.
You can put a request through your GP or pay for private testing if you have any issues in doing. I can help to recommend where to go for these.
