Fertility: what it is and how we help

Fertility support at a glance

Around one in seven couples in the UK have difficulty conceiving. Most couples conceive within a year of regular unprotected sex, but age, cycle regularity, sperm health and conditions such as PCOS and endometriosis all play a part. Medical investigation comes first; supportive care can help you prepare your body and manage the stress of trying.

When to seek help

• You are under 36 and have been trying for a year
• You are 36 or over and have been trying for six months
• Your periods are irregular or absent
• You have PCOS, endometriosis or a history of pelvic infection
• There are known sperm or male fertility concerns

How is fertility investigated and treated?

Your GP can arrange blood tests to check ovulation and hormones, a semen analysis and a referral to a fertility clinic. Treatment may include ovulation induction, IUI or IVF, depending on the cause.

How we support fertility in Chiswick

• Fertility acupuncture: from doctors of Chinese medicine who focus on reproductive health, for natural conception or alongside IVF and IUI.
• Ayurveda: diet, routine and preconception guidance.
• Blood tests: hormones, thyroid, iron, vitamin D and B12.
• Fitness and nutrition with InBody: body composition and nutrition where weight affects fertility.
• Yoga: stress reduction during a demanding process.

What does the evidence say?

The evidence for acupuncture improving IVF pregnancy rates is mixed, and we are honest about that. Some patients value it for relaxation and wellbeing during treatment. Healthy weight, not smoking, limiting alcohol and taking folic acid have clear evidence for improving fertility outcomes. Read more in acupuncture and fertility: what the evidence shows.

How long does it usually take to get pregnant?

Around eight in ten couples conceive within a year of regular unprotected sex, and most of the rest within two years. Fertility declines gradually with age, particularly after 35, which is why the advice is to seek help after six months if you are 36 or older.

What tests are done for fertility?

For women, blood tests can confirm whether you are ovulating and check hormones such as AMH, FSH, thyroid function and prolactin, and an ultrasound may look at the womb and ovaries. For men, a semen analysis checks sperm count, movement and shape. Male factors contribute to a large share of couples' fertility difficulties, so both partners should be tested.

Can stress affect fertility?

Stress alone rarely causes infertility, but trying to conceive can be very stressful, and high stress affects sleep, libido and wellbeing. Many couples find support for stress valuable in its own right, whether through counselling, yoga or relaxing treatments, while medical investigations continue.

What to expect at Omnia

Your first appointment covers your cycle, how long you have been trying, previous tests or treatment and your plans, including any IVF or IUI timelines. We can arrange blood tests and help you prepare questions for your GP or fertility clinic. Acupuncture can be timed around your cycle or treatment dates, alongside nutrition and Ayurvedic guidance, and we coordinate with your fertility clinic if you wish.

What you can do at home

• Take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily when trying to conceive
• Stop smoking and keep alcohol low for both partners
• Aim for a healthy weight and regular exercise
• Have sex every two to three days through the cycle

If you have PCOS, see our guide to getting pregnant with PCOS.

Visit our women's health hub. Omnia Lifestyle, Chiswick W4, two minutes from Turnham Green. Book online or call 020 4515 0000.