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Fertility Tests

© Lori Ramsey

The journey of conception sometimes takes a while in achieving results. When the set amount of time - as determined by you and your doctor - has come and gone and still no pregnancy, then you may opt for fertility testing. There are several tests - ranging from simple blood tests to invasive procedures - that determine if there is actually a problem with you or your partner's fertility. Here is a list of the fertility tests run with a brief description of each.

NON-INVASIVE TESTS

Follicle stimulating hormone and luetenizing hormone is tested by blood drawn from your arm. This is done on day 3 of your cycle.

Semen analysis - a sample of partner's semen - can be done at any time to check for viability and number of sperm.

Postcoital test is done by the doctor obtaining a sample of cervical mucus soon after intercourse and just prior to ovulation. This is to determine if the sperm can survive in your cervical fluid.

Ultrasound exams are given on the day of the LH (luetenizing hormone) surge. This is to determine the thickness of the uterine line, the follicle development and the general condition of the ovaries and uterus. This is often when endometriosis is first diagnosed.

Androgen Panel - if the doctor suspects PCOS. A blood test that checks the levels of testosterone and dihydroeprandrostone. Prolactin and progesterone checked by blood seven days post luteal hormone surge.

Estrodril blood test can be done on the day of the LH surge or 7 days post ovulation. Thyroid tests can be done at anytime during the cycle and is a simple blood test.

INVASIVE TESTS

Hysterosalpingogram - a dye is inserted into the cervix to fill the uterus and fallopian tubes and then x-rayed. This test determines if the uterus and fallopian tubes have any blockages - such as scar tissue, tumors and/or blockages. It is usually done before ovulation - to ensure that a fertilized egg will not be flushed out.

Hysteroscopy - If the hysterosalpingogram comes back with abnormalities then a small tube is inserted through the vagina into the uterus called a hysteroscope. The doctor can take photos of the inside of the uterus for a better evaluation.

Endrometrial Biopsy - This test is done right before menstruation is due and after an hCG test (type of pregnancy test) is given to determine if there is a luteal phase defect. It involves scraping some of the tissue from the uterus. A possible cause of miscarriages is low progesterone - which causes luteal phase defects - this keeps the baby from

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