Fertility Testing
Obviously, testing is key to addressing fertility issues. Usually the
first question regarding female fertility is whether you are ovulating
or not. The next step in fertility testing is tracking your ovulation
through fertility awareness or a fertility monitor. This will provide
Dr. Starks with valuable information about your ovulation.
The first test performed by your fertility specialists involves
measuring your follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing
hormone (LH) to establish a baseline. This is performed on the third day
of your cycle. This test is performed during your first visit.
Your second visit will occur on the day of the LH surge, which is
before ovulation in most cases. During your first cycle, it is common
for your fertility specialists to perform several tests.
Fertility Tests
Cerivcal Mucus Tests
This involves a postcoital test (PCT) which determines if the sperm is
able to penetrate and survive in the cervical mucus. It also involves a
bacterial screening.
Ultrasound Tests
This is used to assess the thickness of the lining of the uterus
(endometrium), monitor follicle development, and check the condition of
the uterus and ovaries. An ultrasound may be conducted two to three days
later to confirm that an egg has been released.
Hormone Tests
These tests are done to assess the various hormone levels that
contribute to the reproductive process. These hormone tests include the
following:
- Luteinizing Hormone
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone
- Estradiol
- Progesterone
- Prolactin
- Free T3
- Total Testosterone
- Free Testosterone
- DHEAS
- Androstenedione
If both the semem analysis and the above testing return normal results,
there is also additional testing that your fertility specialists may
recommend.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
This is simply an x-ray of your uterus and fallopian tubes. A blue dye
is injected through the cervix into the uterus and fallopian tubes. The
dye enables the radiologist to see if there is blockage or any other
problem.
Hysteroscopy
This is a procedure that may be used if the HSG indicates that there may
be problems. The hysteroscope is inserted through the cervix into the
uterus, which allows your fertility specialist to see any abnormalities,
growths, or scarring in the uterus. The hysteroscope allows your
physician to take pictures which may be used for future reference.
Laparoascopy
This is a procedure which uses a narrow fiber optic telescope. The
laparoscope is inserted through a woman's abdomen to look at the uterus,
fallopian tubes, and ovaries. Your physician will be checking for
endometriosis, scar tissue, or other adhesions. It is important to
confirm that you are not pregnant before this test is performed.
Endometrial Biopsy
This is a procedure which involves scraping a small amount of tissue
from the endometrium just prior to menstruation. This biopsy is
performed to assess whether there is a hormonal imbalance or not. It is
important to confirm that you are not pregnant before this test is
performed.
