Fertility Blood Tests: Serology Package
Supporting your fertility journey
The Serology Blood Test Package tests for a series of viral infections. These fertility blood tests are designed in line with the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) guidelines, which advise that these tests are taken before starting fertility treatment.
This package tests for:
HIV
Syphilis
Hepatitis B (surface antigen)
Hepatitis B (core antigen)
Hepatitis C (antibodies)
Rubella
Chlamydia (please note that this is a urine test and you will be required to provide a urine sample at your appointment)
The HFEA guidelines advise that these tests are taken within three months of the first treatment and every two years following the first treatment.
These fertility blood tests provide the information your fertility provider needs to properly plan your treatment. It is important that any infection is identified before starting treatment so that any additional steps can be taken.
£150.00RRP
This package includes:
This test checks for the presence of the HIV virus.
This blood test is used to screen for a current syphilis infection. It detects antibodies that your body produces when fighting a syphilis infection.
This blood test checks for the presence of the hepatitis B antigen, a protein of the virus. A positive result for the antigens means you are currently infected with hepatitis B and are infectious.
This test checks for the presence of antibodies in your blood, which indicate a past hepatitis B infection. Hepatitis B can cause serious liver damage, and is transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles or from any situation where you come into contact with bodily fluids from an infected person. Mothers can also pass it to their babies. The presence of this antibody does not guarantee immunity from hepatitis B.
Testing for hepatitis C antibodies in your blood can tell you whether you’ve previously been infected with hepatitis C, but can’t tell you if the infection is still active in your system. If you receive a positive result for antibodies, you should then have a blood test to determine if the infection is current. Hepatitis C can seriously damage the liver, and is transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles or from a mother to a baby.
Rubella testing is a simple blood test performed to identify whether you have developed antibodies after and infection or vaccination in order to protect you and a baby against rubella. A positive rubella test indicates that you have the antibodies and therefore do not require a vaccination. If the antibodies are not detected, then you will need to have the MMR vaccination prior to fertility treatment.
This test checks for the presence of chlamydia, which will need to be treated before starting fertility treatment. Please note that this is a urine test and you will be required to provide a urine sample at your appointment.
When will I receive my blood test results?
The time in which you receive blood test results will vary based on your location and the type of blood test. We have courier services available at some clinics which can provide results in 1 - 2 working days. Some lab tests take longer, with results available in 7 working days. You can call your clinic to find out the most likely timeline for your results.
If you book multiple blood tests or a blood test package you may receive the results for each blood test at different times.
Your blood test
Our phlebotomy-trained professionals will take a blood sample from you. This sample will be analysed in the UK by our authorised partners, TDL. By booking this blood test, you agree for us to share your personal information with TDL in order to process your test. We’ll make sure you consent to this at your appointment too.
Ultrasound Direct will not review or interpret your private blood test results - we recommend you discuss your results with your preferred healthcare provider.
Preparing for your fertility blood test appointment
Hydrate Drink plenty of water in the 24 hours before your blood test. This will make the blood draw easier.
Make sure the blood draw area is easily accessible Wear loose clothing that allows easy access to both arms and hands.
If you are on anticoagulant medication, take it after the appointment If this is not possible, you can take it before your appointment, if it is absolutely essential.
Let our clinic team know if you are nervous about needles They will make sure you’re calm and comfortable and do everything they can to make your blood draw quick and simple.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, we will send you the results and recommend that you share these with your GP or fertility provider.
It is not unusual for some bleeding to occur under the skin following your blood test and sometimes this can extend a little further around the puncture site. If this causes you concern, check with your practice nurse.
Sometimes we cannot get a blood sample from you. This can be for many reasons, such as not being hydrated enough, feeling cold or having another blood test recently. We will always offer you another appointment so we can try again.
Visit our FAQs page for any further questions you may have.