ExploreLife stages
Trying to conceive
Most couples conceive within a year. Knowing your fertile window and getting early review when there are risk factors makes a real difference.
Common symptoms
- Cycle length variation
- Clear stretchy discharge around ovulation
- Mid-cycle twinge
- Breast tenderness in the second half of the cycle
Useful to track
- Period start dates
- Cervical mucus changes
- Ovulation test results
- Intercourse timing, without pressure
Tests and conversations that may be relevant
- Preconception check: blood pressure, iron, rubella, vitamin D
- You can ask a GP for blood tests for:
- LH (luteinising hormone) — the hormone that triggers ovulation; low or high levels can affect whether you ovulate
- FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) — tells the ovaries to grow eggs each cycle; usually checked early in the cycle
- E2 (oestradiol) — the main oestrogen; gives context to FSH results
- AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) — a rough picture of egg supply; it cannot predict pregnancy on its own
- HbA1c — your average blood sugar over recent months, often checked with PCOS or irregular cycles
- Prolactin — the milk hormone; raised levels can stop ovulation
- Progesterone — checked about a week after ovulation to confirm it happened
- Thyroid function tests (TFT) — thyroid hormones affect your cycle and conception
- Cycle tracking review
- Semen analysis for a male partner
- Ultrasound when indicated
When to see a GP or specialist
- Trying for 12 months, or 6 months if you are over 35
- Known endometriosis, PCOS or pelvic surgery
- Irregular or absent periods
- Two or more miscarriages
Urgent warning signs
- Severe one-sided pain or shoulder tip pain with a positive test — possible ectopic pregnancy, go to emergency
In Australia, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Questions to take to a clinician
- What tests make sense for us now?
- How does my history affect timing?
- When would you refer to a fertility specialist?
Related
eophi shares general information reviewed against Australian guidance. It never diagnoses. If something feels urgent, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.