Pre-IVF blood tests generally include:

Blood tests for sexually transmitted diseases, in particular: VDRL, HIV, Hepatitis B and C and Rubella antibody status.

The husband should have a sperm test to assess his fertility status and have the semen culture for bacteria infection. Samples are produced after two to four days of abstinence.

A hormonal profile of the woman, in particular the FSH, LH and prolactin levels on Day 2 of your period. This helps us decide on the stimulation regime and dosage of medications used.

Optional tests may include: Thalassaemia screening, specialised sperm assays e.g. sperm survival tests, sperm fertilising capacity, etc.

An elevated FSH level may indicate failing ovarian function or poor ovarian reserves. This has important prognostic value. There is a high possibility of having a poor response to the standard stimulation regimes and the quality of oocytes may also be poor. There will therefore be a need to modify the stimulation regime so as to be able to get a better response with better quality oocytes.