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Fertility Test Services at Metro IVF
In Malaysia, fertility issues affects approximately one in six couples, with a growing number of individuals seeking professional help for reproductive health evaluation.
A comprehensive assessment is the essential first appointment for couples experiencing difficulties conceiving.
At Metro IVF, we provide comprehensive fertility testing services to empower couples and individuals in Malaysia with the knowledge and support needed to navigate their fertility journey. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.
Understanding Fertility Testing
What is Infertility?
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse for couples aged 35 and younger, or after 6 months for women over 35, reflecting the natural decline in fertility associated with age.
Primary infertility refers to couples who have never conceived, while secondary infertility applies to those who have conceived before but are now facing challenges. At Metro IVF, we recognize that fertility issues can stem from male factors, female factors, or a combination, and our protocols are designed to investigate all possibilities.
When to Seek Fertility Testing?
Couples under 35 who experience failure to conceive after 6–12 months of trying should consider fertility assessment Malaysia.
Women aged 35 or older should seek testing after six months of unsuccessful attempts, as fertility naturally declines with age.
Testing is also recommended if either partner has a history of irregular periods, chemotherapy, STIs, or suspected hormonal issues (low testosterone, progesterone, AMH). Both partners should undergo evaluation to ensure a comprehensive understanding of fertility factors.
Common Causes of Infertility
For Women
- Hormonal Imbalances: These can interfere with regular ovulation (the release of eggs).
- Ovulation Disorders: Conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) or low levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) can prevent eggs from being released properly.
- Blocked Fallopian Tubes: This can stop the egg and sperm from meeting for fertilization.
- Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside it, potentially affecting the ovaries.
- Age: As women get older, the number and quality of their eggs naturally decline.
- Uterine and Endometrial Abnormalities: Abnormal uterine bleeding, heavy menstrual periods can lead to infertility by disrupting ovulation, embryo implantation, or increasing miscarriage risk.
- Hormonal Imbalances: These can interfere with regular ovulation (the release of eggs).
For Men
- Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): Fewer sperm are produced than normal.
- Poor Sperm Quality: This includes slow-moving sperm (low motility) or sperm with abnormal shapes (morphology).
- Hormonal Issues: Imbalances in hormones like testosterone can reduce sperm production.
- Genetic Problems: Inherited conditions can affect the ability to make healthy sperm.
- Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): Fewer sperm are produced than normal.
Societal Trends in Malaysia
Societal trends in Malaysia, such as delayed parenthood due to career priorities and rising rates of diabetes and obesity, also contribute to fertility challenges, reflected in the declining Total Fertility Rate (TFR) from 4.9 in 1970 to 1.6 in 2022-2023.
What Happens During Your First Visit?
Initial Consultation
At your first consultation, our specialist will take the time to understand you and your partner’s overall health and fertility goals. Here’s what to expect:
- Medical background: We’ll chat about any past illnesses, surgeries, medications, or pregnancies you’ve had.
- Lifestyle habits: Things like smoking, alcohol use, diet, and even work-related exposures can affect fertility, so we’ll gently explore those together.
- Sexual health: We’ll ask about how often you’re trying and whether there have been any challenges—always in a respectful, private manner.
- Family plans: Whether you dream of one child or more, we’ll talk about your ideal family size and timeline.
You’ll also both go through a simple physical check-up. This helps us spot things like stress, weight-related issues, or other health factors that may be impacting fertility. It’s all part of giving you the best care before the next steps.
Fertility Tests for Women
At Metro IVF, we follow a gentle, step-by-step approach—starting with simple, non-invasive tests and only moving to more advanced procedures if necessary.
- Hormone Blood Tests: Done early in your menstrual cycle (usually days 2–4) are carried out to assess FSH and LH levels, Estradiol, AMH levels, Thyroid Hormones, Pituitary Hormones, and etc.
- Ovulation Tracking: We confirm if you’re ovulating properly using a simple blood test for progesterone levels by measuring LH levels or using Ovulation Prediction Kits.
- Hormone Blood Tests: Done early in your menstrual cycle (usually days 2–4) are carried out to assess FSH and LH levels, Estradiol, AMH levels, Thyroid Hormones, Pituitary Hormones, and etc.
| Hormone | Function in Establishing Pregnancy |
|---|---|
| Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) | Helps the ovaries grow and prepare eggs for release. It also helps make the hormones needed for the eggs to develop properly. |
| Luteinising hormone (LH) | Triggers the release of a mature egg from the ovary (ovulation) and helps the body make progesterone to support pregnancy. |
| Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) | Controls how many eggs start to grow, making sure not too many develop at once, helping keep a healthy supply of eggs. |
| Progesterone | Prepares the womb lining to accept and support a fertilized egg, and keeps the womb ready to help the pregnancy grow. |
- Ultrasound Scans: A transvaginal scan gives us a clear picture of your uterus, ovaries, and endometrial lining. It helps detect fibroids, cysts, or polyps that might affect fertility.
- Tubal Patency Testing: Done to check for any blockage in the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity.
- Ultrasound Scans: A transvaginal scan gives us a clear picture of your uterus, ovaries, and endometrial lining. It helps detect fibroids, cysts, or polyps that might affect fertility.
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- Laparoscopy or Hysteroscopy: These are minor procedures using tiny cameras to look inside the uterus or pelvic area. They help diagnose issues like endometriosis, adhesions, or abnormalities that can interfere with pregnancy.
- Laparoscopy or Hysteroscopy: These are minor procedures using tiny cameras to look inside the uterus or pelvic area. They help diagnose issues like endometriosis, adhesions, or abnormalities that can interfere with pregnancy.
Fertility Tests for Men
Male fertility screening is simple, fast, and just as important in understanding the full picture.
- Semen Analysis: This key test looks at your sperm’s count, movement (motility), shape (morphology), volume, and pH. Results are usually ready quickly.
- Hormone Blood Tests: We’ll check your testosterone, FSH, and LH levels in the event that Semen Analysis results are drastically poor.
- Semen Analysis: This key test looks at your sperm’s count, movement (motility), shape (morphology), volume, and pH. Results are usually ready quickly.
| Hormone | Function in Sperm Production |
|---|---|
| Testosterone | This is the main male hormone that helps sperm grow and develop properly. It also helps with male traits like a deeper voice and muscle strength. |
| FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) | This hormone tells special cells in the testicles to help sperm grow and mature. It works together with testosterone to make sure sperm are healthy and produced in good numbers. |
| LH (Luteinizing Hormone) | This hormone signals the testicles to make testosterone. Without LH, there wouldn’t be enough testosterone to help sperm develop. |
- Physical Examination: A quick check to spot any physical signs that may affect fertility.
- Infection Screening: Includes tests for HIV, Hepatitis B/C, and Syphilis (VDRL) to ensure your reproductive health is in good shape.
- Physical Examination: A quick check to spot any physical signs that may affect fertility.
Advanced & Genetic Testing
For more complex situations, we offer specialized tests to give you answers and peace of mind:
- Karyotyping: A genetic test to check for chromosomal issues in couples that may affect fertility or pregnancy.
- Y-Chromosome Microdeletion Test: Recommended for men with extremely low or absent sperm count (oligospermia or azoospermia).
- Pre-Implantation Genetic Testing (PGT): Done prior to the Frozen Embryo Transfer stage, this test checks embryos for genetic conditions before they’re transferred into the uterus.
These tests are highly accurate (94–99%) and safe, though certain procedures may cause mild discomfort—but don’t worry, our caring team will walk you through every step so you know exactly what to expect.
Financial Assistance
We understand that fertility treatments can be a big financial commitment—but don’t worry, there are several ways to ease the cost:
- Insurance support: While basic tests may not always be fully covered, certain insurance plans can offer up to RM15,000 in coverage for fertility treatments like IVF and IUI.
- EPF (KWSP) withdrawals: You can use your EPF savings to help pay for IUI or IVF, treatments. Just make sure to have the required documents ready—like medical reports and your marriage certificate.
- Government subsidies: The National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) offers subsidized fertility services, making treatment more accessible for Malaysian couples.
- Metro IVF offers subsidised IVF programs for the less privileged, particularly those from the B40 income group. One such initiative is the IVF Rahmah Rakyat program, launched in line with Malaysia’s Payung Rahmah Budget 2024 and Metro IVF’s 28th anniversary.
- Insurance support: While basic tests may not always be fully covered, certain insurance plans can offer up to RM15,000 in coverage for fertility treatments like IVF and IUI.
Emotional and Cultural Support
We understand the emotional and cultural sensitivities surrounding infertility in Malaysia. Myths, such as infertility being solely a woman’s issue or that treatments are always invasive, can create barriers. At Metro IVF, we provide:
Counselling services: To address stress, anxiety, and decision-making.
Support groups: Connections with trusted resources like FRHAM and Tunku Azizah Fertility Foundation (TAFF).
Online communities: Offer peer support, but we advise verifying information with our specialists.
Why Choose Metro IVF?
At Metro IVF, we’re fully regulated by the Ministry of Health (MOH) and certified by the Reproductive Technology Accreditation Committee (RTAC)—so you can feel safe and supported.
Here’s what you can expect with us:
- Clear, informed choices – You’ll always get the information you need to decide what’s right for you.
- Respect for your privacy – Your details and treatment stay confidential.
- Care with dignity – We provide a warm, safe environment where you’re treated with respect.
- Clear, informed choices – You’ll always get the information you need to decide what’s right for you.
With advanced technologies like PGT and ICSI, and a dedicated team by your side, Metro IVF is here to guide you with care and expertise.
Start Your Journey Today
Take the first step towards parenthood with confidence. Contact Metro IVF to schedule a consultation and explore our fertility testing options tailored to your needs.
An RTAC-Accredited Fertility Centre