In modern society, it’s becoming more and more common for women to have children later in life. It is now the case that as many as 1 in 25 babies are born to mothers aged 40 and above. There are lots of reasons as to why we’re having children later, including: pursuing demanding career paths, the cost of raising a family being on the rise, or not finding the right partner at the right time.
However, as the biological clock ticks, fertility experts stress the importance of knowing your fertility status as early as possible in order to plan ahead and maximise your chances of conceiving naturally in the future.
This is where a ‘Fertility MOT’ can help. Pioneered by skilled medical experts, a Fertility MOT offers you a comprehensive assessment of your fertility using advanced 3D ultrasound technology, offering both qualitative and quantitative insights into your reproductive health.
At CREATE Fertility, we've discontinued this service, but we're here to help bridge the information gap. In this article, we'll offer a detailed and informative look at a Fertility MOT. We'll also discuss alternative methods you can explore to manage and monitor your reproductive health.
How long does a Fertility MOT take?
Thanks to advancements in medicine and technology, assessing your fertility status has become a much more convenient and streamlined process. A Fertility MOT typically takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete. During this time, you'll have tests and assessments to evaluate your reproductive health. The exact duration may vary based on the clinic and the tests needed. It's a good idea to ask the clinic or healthcare provider for a more precise estimate of how long the assessment will take.
Why should I have a fertility MOT?
A fertility test can be useful for women who wish to know their fertility status and be able to plan ahead. If you are still unsure whether you want children, or want children but further down the line, a fertility MOT will give you a realistic idea of your fertility time-line so you can think about your next steps.
What does a Fertility MOT include?
A female Fertility MOT includes a package of tests and evaluations.
The specific components of a Fertility MOT can vary, but it typically includes an advanced, internal Ultrasound Scan scan. This takes around 20-30 minutes and can be performed at any time in the menstrual cycle. Through ultrasound technology, the ovaries are examined to identify follicles, which are egg sacs containing immature eggs. The more follicles there are, the more eggs you have.
Colour Doppler measures blood flow to the follicles and ovaries, allowing for a reproductive health assessment. Improved blood flow to the follicles suggests better egg quality. Additionally, by assessing the number and size of follicles in the ovaries, the doctor can predict how your body may react to fertility drugs and assess the risk of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) during fertility treatment.
The 3D ultrasound technology used during the scan normally provides a full assessment of the womb and establishes whether the uterine environment may be preventing successful pregnancy. Conditions such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis can be identified and the scan can highlight polyps, fibroids or any other factors that could affect implantation of the fertilised egg and cause miscarriage. In addition, the scan assesses the blood flow to the uterus and the lining of the womb.
Where and when can I have one?
You can typically schedule a Fertility MOT at a private fertility clinic or specialised fertility assessment centres. These checks are not typically offered through the NHS but are available privately. They will also provide guidance on the best time to undergo a Fertility MOT, which may vary depending on your individual circumstances.
The bottom line
Having a Fertility MOT can be a valuable step for many individuals and couples who want to assess their reproductive health. However, it’s worth noting that a Fertility MOT only provides a snapshot of your fertility at a specific point in time. It can't guarantee future fertility or accurately predict your ability to conceive. Many factors, including lifestyle, health changes, and age, can impact your fertility over time.
When you choose CREATE Fertility, you're selecting from a wide spectrum of fertility services that extend beyond a single fertility MOT. These services include semen analysis, AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) testing, HyCoSy, and hysteroscopy, all of which ensure a comprehensive understanding of your reproductive health.
Our personalised, innovative, and holistic approach to fertility testing sets us apart, ensuring your unique needs are met on your path to parenthood.
Reach out to us today to schedule an initial consultation.
