Fertility Tests
Fertility Testing: Your First Step Toward Understanding
and Clarity
Trying to conceive can be an emotional journey. If you’ve
been trying for a while without success, or if you have known health
conditions, fertility testing is a powerful and proactive step. It’s not about
finding “fault”—it’s about gaining a clear picture of your unique
reproductive health. Our goal is to provide you with answers, reduce
uncertainty, and create a personalized path forward based on knowledge and
compassion.
What to Expect: A Collaborative Process
Fertility testing is a partnership between you, your partner
(if applicable), and your medical team. It typically involves a series of
straightforward evaluations for both women and men, as infertility factors can
affect either partner. The process is designed to answer three fundamental
questions:
- For
Women: Is the ovary producing healthy eggs? Is the uterus
receptive for implantation? - For
Men: Is sperm production healthy in terms of count, shape, and
movement? - For
Both: Is there a clear path for the egg and sperm to meet?
Fertility Tests for Women
The initial assessment for women focuses on key aspects of
the reproductive system.
1. Ovarian Reserve Testing (Assessing Egg Supply &
Quality)
These tests give us an idea of the quantity (and to some extent, the quality)
of the eggs remaining in your ovaries.
- Blood
Tests: - Anti-Müllerian
Hormone (AMH): This is one of the most informative tests, as it
can be done any time during your cycle. It measures a hormone produced by
the small follicles in your ovaries.
- Antral
Follicle Count (AFC): An ultrasound is used to count the number
of small, resting follicles (antral follicles) in your ovaries at the
beginning of your cycle. This provides a direct visual assessment of your
ovarian reserve.
2. Assessing Ovulation
- Blood
Test (Progesterone Level): A blood test about 7 days before your
expected period can confirm if ovulation has occurred. However, majority
of women with a regular cycle do not have to do this test. A regular
period cycle more or less confirms ovulation.
3. Evaluating the Uterus and Fallopian Tubes
It’s essential to ensure the path is clear and the environment is healthy for
an embryo.
- Hysterosalpingogram
(HSG): This is an X-ray procedure where a special dye is injected
through the cervix into the uterus and fallopian tubes. It allows us to
see if the fallopian tubes are open and if the shape of the uterine cavity
is normal. - Transvaginal
Ultrasound: This ultrasound provides a detailed look at the
uterus and ovaries, checking for issues like fibroids, polyps, or ovarian
cysts.
Fertility Tests for Men
A male fertility evaluation is simple, non-invasive, and
crucial.
- Semen
Analysis: This is the primary test for male fertility. It
examines a semen sample to evaluate: - Sperm
Count (Concentration): The number of sperm present. - Motility: The percentage of sperm that are moving correctly.
- Morphology: The percentage of sperm that are normally shaped.
- Further
Testing: If the semen analysis shows an abnormality, additional
blood tests (to check hormone levels) or a visit with a urologist who
specializes in male infertility may be recommended.
Putting It All Together
Once testing is complete, your fertility specialist will
review all the results with you in detail. This comprehensive picture allows us
to identify any potential issues and recommend the most effective treatment
options, which could range from simple lifestyle adjustments and timed
intercourse to advanced procedures like IUI or IVF.
Taking the First Step is a Step Toward Hope
We understand that considering fertility tests can feel
daunting. Our team is dedicated to making this process as smooth, clear, and
supportive as possible. You are not just a set of results; you are a person on
a journey, and we are here to guide you.
Ready for clarity? Contact us today to schedule a
consultation and discuss which fertility tests are right for you.