Assessment of female fertility in the general practice setting

Abstract

BACKGROUND: An assessment of female fertility may be undertaken in the general practice setting for a variety of reasons. These include concerns about future fertility when pregnancy is not immediately planned, a desire to consider elective oocyte cryopreservation and difficulty conceiving. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this article is to summarise indications, rationale and components of a comprehensive female fertility assessment in a primary care setting. DISCUSSION: The primary care physician has an essential role in providing women with guidance, counselling and assessment regarding fertility concerns. A complete initial assessment includes pre-pregnancy screening and counselling, and assessment of ovulation, ovarian reserve and pelvic anatomy to guide further investigation and management.