Your fertility evaluation will help determine what makes the most sense for your fertility journey
Here are some of the fertility tests you may experience during your fertility journey
Physical exam
Pelvic exam may be performed during a physical exam to check the size and shape of your uterus, ovaries, and other internal and external organs.
Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound helps check your uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and pelvic area. This specific kind of ultrasound is done by placing a probe directly into the vagina to better view the anatomy and condition of the uterus and ovaries. The uterus is checked for structural abnormalities, and the ovaries are checked for cysts.
Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy helps your fertility specialist better see the uterine cavity to diagnose or treat any problems of the uterus.
Hysterosalpingogram
A hysterosalpingogram, also called an HSG test, is a type of x-ray that checks for any issues in the fallopian tubes and can detect some uterine cavity problems.
Hormone and semen tests
These are important hormones for proper reproductive development.
- In women, FSH helps to stimulate growth of eggs in the ovaries.
- In men, FSH helps control the production of sperm.
- In women, high LH levels cause ovaries to release an egg.
- In men, LH causes the testicles to make testosterone.
The FSH level is a blood test. Blood or urine can be used to test for LH levels.
AMH levels correspond to a woman’s egg count. AMH testing can also help diagnose an ovarian mass. An AMH test is a blood test.
This test is often called estradiol level test. This is one of the most common fertility tests to determine the ovaries’ ability to produce eggs. An estradiol test is a blood test but can also be done using a saliva sample.
Proper progesterone levels are important for ovulation. A blood test can determine your progesterone levels.
Prolactin is an important hormone for ovulation. High levels of prolactin may inhibit ovulation. A blood test can help determine your prolactin levels.
Androgens are also known as the “male” hormones, but both men's and women's bodies produce these. Improper androgen levels can negatively impact fertility. A blood test is used to determine your androgen levels.
Your doctor may also test your vitamin D levels. An ample amount of vitamin D promotes fertility in men and women.
Semen analysis is a lab test that determines a man’s sperm count, sperm function, and overall sperm health. Often, the sample must be analyzed within 1 hour of collection.
