Fertility Testing:
Know Where You Stand.
When Should You Get Tested?
- If you’re under 35 and not pregnant after 12 months of unprotected intercourse.
- If you’re over 35, testing is advised after just 6 months of trying.
- Early testing is also recommended for those with known issues like PCOS, endometriosis, or irregular periods.
- Past pelvic surgeries or reproductive health issues may also call for early evaluation.
The First Clinical Consultation
- Your clinician will review your medical, menstrual, and obstetric history.
- A physical exam includes checking your BMI, blood pressure, and basic systemic exam.
- Evaluation of the thyroid gland, breasts, and reproductive organs helps identify any issues early.
- This information guides what further testing is most appropriate.
Key Hormonal Blood Tests
(Day 2/3)
- FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone):
Evaluates ovarian reserve. High levels may suggest low egg supply. - AMH (Anti‑Müllerian Hormone):
A reliable indicator of your remaining egg count. - LH (Luteinizing Hormone):
Supports egg maturation and ovulation. - Estradiol:
Reflects ovarian function and hormonal balance.
Internal Baseline Ultrasound
- Done between Day 2–4 of your cycle to assess ovarian health.
- Measures antral follicle count (AFC) – your eggs ready for ovulation that month.
- Checks for ovarian cysts, fibroids, uterine abnormalities, and sometimes blocked tubes.
- Monitors endometrial thickness and blood flow, crucial for embryo implantation.
Fallopian Tube & Uterus X‑Ray
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) checks if your fallopian tubes are open.
- Detects uterine shape abnormalities like polyps, fibroids, or adhesions.
- Helps identify blockages that might be stopping conception.
- A key test for anyone suspected of having tubal infertility.
Infectious & Hormonal Screenings
- Tests include HIV, Hepatitis B&C, Rubella, RPR, and blood group.
- Hormonal screening like TSH, PRL, FSH, Prolactin—check for thyroid or pituitary imbalances.
- Blood tests for insulin resistance or diabetes screening when indicated.
- Additional tests like lipid profile, liver/kidney function, and blood counts may be added based on your history.
Advanced Tests (If Recommended)
- Hystero-Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery to explore the uterus and pelvis, and treat issues like fibroids or blocked tubes.
- Thrombophilia Panel: For those with recurrent miscarriage or implantation failure—it checks for clotting disorders.
- Endometrial Biopsy: Done if tuberculosis or a thickened lining is suspected; also used in IVF failure analysis.
- Genetic Testing: For couples with repeated miscarriages or chromosomal abnormalities in embryos.
