Fertility Checks in Sydney: Dr Jenny Cook
Dr Jenny Cook | Sydney Gynaecologist & Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon
Why Book a Fertility Test?
If you are planning a pregnancy or have been trying to conceive, a fertility test can help you understand your reproductive health and identify how you can support your chances of pregnancy.
A comprehensive fertility test can evaluate factors such as ovarian reserve and hormone health, as well as investigating possible underlying conditions such as PCOS or endometriosis. Your fertility test results will help create a plan based on your age, medical history, and pregnancy goals.
What We Discuss
During your consultation, we will explore your menstrual health, general wellbeing, and lifestyle choices, and how these factors may affect your fertility and future pregnancy.
Menstrual Cycles
Your fertility check in Sydney will begin with a discussion about your menstrual cycles:
Pelvic pain, which can be a symptom of endometriosis
Irregular cycles, which may suggest Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
General Health
Your general health will also be reviewed during your fertility test. We will look at any medications you are taking and whether they need to be adjusted to ensure safety during pregnancy. You will also be introduced to MotherSafe, a free NSW-based service run from the Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, which provides expert advice on the safety of medications before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding.
Lifestyle Factors
Lifestyle factors are another important focus of your fertility check. We will talk through:
Smoking, alcohol, caffeine, and recreational drugs
Pre-pregnancy supplements such as folate, which supports the baby’s nervous system and reduces the risk of neural tube defects like spina bifida
Weight, since the ideal BMI for fertility is 20–25 kg/m²; both underweight and overweight can reduce fertility, and we can discuss strategies to optimise this
Exercise, as more than three aerobic sessions per week may have a negative effect on fertility
Diet, with the option of a referral to a dietician if needed
Fertility Investigations
A fertility check can include female testing, male testing, or a baseline assessment of both partners. When you book a fertility check in Sydney, we can organise a range of investigations to give you a clearer picture of your fertility.
pelvic ultrasound
This allows us to check for ovarian cysts, measure the number of follicles (an indicator of egg reserve), and examine the uterine structure for polyps, fibroids, septa, or other abnormalities that could affect fertility.
HyCoSy (Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography)
This ultrasound assesses whether the fallopian tubes are open and provides detailed information about the shape of the uterus. HyCoSy is also known to sometimes improve fertility by flushing out the tubes, with many women conceiving spontaneously within three months of the procedure.
Semen analysis
For partners, to assess sperm count, motility (speed), and morphology (shape).
Blood tests may include:
Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)
Thyroid function
Full Blood Count and Iron studies
Antenatal serology (HIV, Hepatitis B & C, VDRL, CMV)
PCR for Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea
Prolactin
Androgen profile
Varicella Zoster serology
Rubella serology
If results show you are not immune to infections such as rubella or chicken pox, I will recommend vaccination before pregnancy. These infections can be particularly harmful during pregnancy and may cause serious complications.
Genetic Testing
We will discuss whether you would like to proceed with genetic testing. Options include:
Genetic Carrier Screening (GCS):
Tests for more than 400 genetic conditions
Around 1 in 30 couples discover they carry a condition which may be passed on
Test kits can be ordered online from the Monash IVF website
Three Gene Panel Test:
Screens for cystic fibrosis, fragile X syndrome, and spinal muscular atrophy
Around 1 in 200 couples discover a risk through this test
This test is covered by Medicare
Planning Ahead
Finally, we will talk about your future family plans, including your preferred timeframe for starting a family and how many children you hope to have. Fertility is most closely linked to age and begins to decline after 35 years. If you are single but not yet ready to have a baby, we can also explore options for fertility preservation as part of your fertility check.
Book a Fertility Check in Sydney
A fertility test can provide valuable insight into your reproductive health and help you make informed decisions.
If you are looking for a fertility check in Sydney, Dr Jenny Cook can help you interpret your results, identify potential underlying concerns, and guide you toward an evidence-based clinical pathway. Book an appointment today to discuss your fertility, pre-pregnancy planning, and the steps you can take to optimise your health before pregnancy.