At Fusion Healthcare, we offer an IVF blood test package to provide you with peace of mind before starting your IVF journey. When preparing for in vitro fertilisation (IVF), a series of blood tests is a key part of the journey. These tests help fertility specialists understand your health and ensure that your body is ready for treatment. Pre-IVF blood tests are an essential step in tailoring a treatment plan to your needs. It is important for doctors to ensure the absence of any infectious diseases prior to starting IVF treatment. This test is usually recommended by doctors for both you and your partner, to give you confidence going forward with your IVF journey.
Infectious disease screening helps detect infections that could impact fertility, pregnancy, and even the baby’s health. Many infectious diseases can be asymptomatic, meaning people often don’t know they have them. Even without symptoms, these infections can pose serious risks, including:
By identifying any infections early, these screenings allow healthcare providers to take preventative steps and reduce risks, providing you with the safest possible IVF experience.
Hepatitis infections in mothers can lead to complications in pregnancy and even be passed to the baby during childbirth.
This Blood test checks for the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and hepatitis C antibodies. If positive, specialists will discuss treatment options to lower the risk to the baby and manage the virus during pregnancy.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that attacks the liver and can cause both acute and chronic disease. Hepatitis B is spread by blood, semen, and vaginal fluids. It is a major global health problem, with an estimated 296 million people worldwide living with chronic hepatitis B infection. The chance of getting it in the UK is low. One of the key tools in diagnosing hepatitis B and monitoring its progression is through blood tests.
Antigen (HBsAG): HBsAG is the surface antigen which is present in the blood during a hepatitis B infection.
Surface anti-body (anti-HBs): This is the anti-body against the hepatitis B surface antigen. The presence of this anti-body indicates immunity to hepatitis B either through vaccination or past infection.
HCV antibody test: Looks for antibodies to the hepatitis C virus, which are chemicals released into the bloodstream when someone is infected. A positive result means you’ve been infected at some point, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you currently have the virus. A negative result means you’re not currently infected, but you should be tested again if you think you’ve been exposed in the last 6 months.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria. It can be serious if it’s left untreated or passed on to a baby during pregnancy or childbirth. Syphilis is usually spread by contact between moist skin areas anywhere on or inside the body. This blood test tests for antibodies which are specific to syphilis, this is known as a treponemal. Treponemal antibodies usually remain detectable for life, even after successful treatment, so this blood test is capable of indicating a current of past syphilis infection.
If any test results indicate a positive infection, your doctors will work with you to develop a plan to manage the infection before moving forward with IVF. Here’s how this process generally works:
Positive Results: In most cases, infections can be treated or managed to reduce the risk to both the mother and baby.
Treatment: Some infections, like syphilis, can be fully treated, while others, like hepatitis, can be managed to reduce risk.
Delays: Occasionally, IVF may need to be delayed to ensure infections are under control and that you’re in optimal health before starting treatment.
You will receive your blood test results within 24-48 hours.
Infectious disease testing is usually required for both partners. Even if one partner doesn’t carry an infection, it’s essential to ensure both are healthy to prevent transmission risks and support a safe treatment environment. Clinics may also require infectious disease screening for sperm and egg donors if using donor gametes, further ensuring safety.
Infectious disease blood tests may feel like a formal step in your IVF journey, but they’re crucial to ensuring a safe and successful outcome. Knowing that you and your partner are free from harmful infections allows you to focus on the IVF process with peace of mind. With early testing, careful planning, and clear communication with your fertility team, you’re taking the right steps to start your IVF journey in the best possible health.
By understanding the role of infectious disease screening, you’re giving yourself the best chance at a healthy pregnancy and a successful IVF experience.
Preparation for a blood test may vary depending on the type of test. Generally, you may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test, avoid certain medications, and stay hydrated. Our team will provide specific instructions based on your test.
The turnaround time for blood test results depends on the specific test. Most standard tests are completed within 24-48 hours, while specialized tests may take a bit longer. We will inform you of the expected time frame when you have your test done.
Coverage for blood tests varies depending on your insurance plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to understand what tests are covered. Our team can also assist you with any insurance-related queries.
Booking a blood test appointment at Fusion Healthcare is easy. You can schedule your appointment online through our website, call us at 01582 249 449, or email us at info@fusion-radiology.com. We offer flexible appointment times to accommodate your schedule.
