Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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This information is designed to help you understand the basic investigations that are usually arranged at the first appointment. Please ask your doctor or nurse if you need any further clarification.
For blood tests, these can be booked via http://
You may choose to have some of the blood tests done at your GP surgery, as it may be more convenient. This is not a problem, Alternatively, you could also drop in to Outpatients between 8.30 am and 5pm to have your blood tests.
Some of the blood tests for fertility investigations have to be done at specific time of the cycle, as the hormone levels vary with the cycle. It is important to maintain a menstrual diary to interpret the results accurately.
Checking for Ovulation (Progesterone)
This blood test needs to be done one week prior to your next expected period. If you have a 28 day cycle, ( counting from the 1st day of one period to 1st day of the next), the test needs to be done on Day 21, day 1 being the day you start your period. If your cycles are irregular, you may need to repeat the test after a few days, and this will be discussed at your clinic appointment.
Checking baseline hormones (FSH, LH and Oestradiol)
This blood test needs to be done between Day 2 and 5 of your cycle while you may still be on your period. Other hormone tests like androgen profile, prolactin and Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) are usually done at the same time.
Immunity to Rubella
This blood test can be done at any time of your, cycle, along with any of the other tests.
Checking for Fallopian Tubes
This is usually done with ultrasound scan or X Ray in the Radiology department. Speculum examination is done and a fine catheter is introduced through the cervix. Dye is inserted through this catheter and any spill from the tubes is checked on ultrasound or X Ray.
- For Frimley Park patients, you need to send an email to Ultrasound Department fhft.
hycosyrequest Monday– Friday between 10am—3pm on the first day of your period to make your appointment.@nhs.net - For Wexham Park patients, you need to ring 03006153554 on the first day of your period to make your appointment.
Please note that it is our policy that a chlamydia screen should have been performed before testing the fallopian tubes. You should avoid unprotected intercourse from the first day of your period up to the day to do the test. The examination can be uncomfortable and it may be helpful to take a couple of paracetamol tablets prior to the procedure. Sometimes, it is not possible to accommodate all requests, and you may be asked to call again with the subsequent cycle.
Semen Analysis
This is a basic essential test for fertility. The test includes measuring the sperm count, motility, shape of sperm and presence of antibodies. Two-three days of abstinence is advisable prior to the test, and it is important that you read the delivery instructions on the form prior to producing the sample.
It can be an embarrassing procedure for many men but, it is an absolutely essential test and treatment may not go ahead unless all requested semen analyses are carried out. If the first test has shown any abnormality, it may be necessary to repeat the test but, usually not earlier than three months after the first.
All the tests results are discussed at your next clinic appointment, as it is important they are put in to context by your doctor for your individual circumstances. The secretaries are not permitted to give the results by telephone.
Contact Number
Gynaecology Clinic: FPH 0300 613 4127
WPH 0300 615 3750
Monday– Friday from 0830 to 1800
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Gynaecology service.
About this information
Service:
Gynaecology
Reference:
L/132
Approval date:
11 May 2026
Review date:
1 May 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.