3 Overlooked Fertility Tests

When you're trying to conceive, "we can't find anything" can be the most frustrating answer of all - because it doesn't feel like an answer at all. And if you've had a niggling feeling that it's all a bit under-investigated, you're not imagining it.

In practice, there are a few tests that don't always get looked at early - and because I take a thorough, whole-person approach, they're often the ones I encourage people to talk through with their GP or fertility team.

Here are three tests I'd want every couple planning a pregnancy, or struggling to conceive, to know about.

1. Progesterone

Progesterone is a key hormone in the second half of your cycle, and it's one worth understanding. If you experience irregular cycles, spotting, or a short luteal phase, it can be a useful conversation to have with your GP or fertility team - a simple, well-timed blood test (ideally around 7 days before your period is due) can tell you more about what's happening with your progesterone.

2. Thyroid - and why “normal” may not tell the whole story

Thyroid function and fertility are closely linked. Interestingly, one study found that women with unexplained infertility tended to have higher TSH levels than those without - nearly twice as many had a TSH of 2.5 or above, even though all their results were technically in the “normal” range.

It's an association, not a proven cause, and it's an area researchers are still actively investigating - guidelines don't currently recommend treatment at that level for natural conception. But it's a good example of why a fuller thyroid picture, rather than TSH alone, can be worth discussing with your GP or fertility team - especially if you've had unexplained difficulty conceiving or recurrent loss. Research link

There's also research suggesting that women with an underactive thyroid in early pregnancy can have a higher risk of miscarriage - another reason a proper thyroid check is worth asking about. Research link

3. Iron - and yes, his iron too

Iron is one people rarely connect with fertility - and it matters for both partners. It's worth knowing that iron overload conditions, such as haemochromatosis (a genetic condition that's more common than many realise), have been linked with reduced fertility and hormonal changes in men. Iron balance matters in both directions, and it's a simple thing to include when bloods are being done - for him as well as you. If it's never been checked, it's worth a mention at your next appointment. Research link

The bigger point

None of this is about self-diagnosing or panicking over a number. It's about being an informed, empowered participant in your own care - and knowing which conversations are worth having.

That's a big part of how I work: taking the time to look at your whole picture, and helping you ask the right questions of the right people, at the right time.

Ready to look at your fertility from every angle? That’s exactly what we do together inside the Fertility Program. 

This article was written by Olivia McFadyen, founder of Sora Sol and a qualified, accredited Homeopath, Naturopath, Nutritionist and Herbalist. It is intended as general education only and is not a substitute for individualised health advice. Please speak with your GP or a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any product, supplement or remedy, or making changes to your healthcare.