Other Infertility Tests
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Viral Disease Tests
Rubella titer: Rubella (German measles) can cause heart and hearing
defects in a fetus if a pregnant woman contracts the disease during
pregnancy. If tests show she is not immune to rubella, the woman should
be immunized.
HIV/AIDS: Many doctors also test the woman for the Human Immunodeficiency
Virus (HIV), varicella, and hepatitis. If detected, the woman can take
precautions to protect her fetus during pregnancy.
Chlamydia and Mycoplasma: These two infectious diseases that may cause
infertility. They are diagnosed by taking a sample from the cervix.
Chlamydia can infect and damage the fallopian tubes. Mycoplasmas may
result in decreased sperm motility, antisperm antibodies, and abnormal
egg penetration.
Genetic analysis
The doctor may recommend genetic tests if they are warranted because of
the ethnic background or family history of either partner.
Hormone Levels and Ovarian Reserve (blood test)
For most women, fertility declines sometime after age 30, then ends at
age 45. For some women, fertility ceases many years earlier, even though
they have regular cycles and no signs of menopause. The decline or lack
of fertility is reflected in high levels of follicle-stimulating hormone
(FSH) or estradiol, as her body attempts to overcome the decline. A blood
test early in the woman?s cycle detects the level of FSH. This gives the
doctor a general idea of the number of "good eggs" a woman has left in
her ovaries (her ovarian reserve).
A blood test should also measure serum prolactin and TSH levels, since
abnormalities in these hormones may cause infertility. Other tests may
measure thyroid function and levels of leutenizing hormone (LH),
progesterone, testosterone, and androstenedione. After basic hormonal
tests are performed, the physician reviews the results and may order
other diagnostic tests.
Post-Coital Test
The post-coital (after intercourse) test determines whether sperm are
able to progress through the woman's cervical mucus. The test is done
just before the time of ovulation. The couple has intercourse. Then, 8 to
12 hours later, the physician examines a sample of cervical mucus for the
quality and quantity of mucus and for the presence of active sperm.
Endometrial Biopsy
Endometrial Biopsy
An endometrial biopsy determines whether the uterine lining (the
endometrium) is properly developed to allow a fertilized egg to implant.
The physician removes a small sample of tissue from the lining of the
uterus 11-13 days after the day of ovulation.
Immunologic Testing
Immunologic factors may play a role in infertility. Testing may be
indicated in certain situations.
Diagnostic/Surgical Procedures: Laparoscopy and Hysteroscopy
Based upon the findings of the preliminary infertility tests, the
physician may recommend a diagnostic/surgical procedure. The two most
commonly performed diagnostic surgical procedures are laparoscopy and
hysteroscopy.
Laparoscopy: The physician inserts a viewing telescope called a
laparoscope through a small abdominal incision. The laparoscope allows
the physician to see the reproductive organs. This procedure requires
general anesthesia and usually results in a moderate amount of discomfort
after the procedure. The physician may be able to surgically correct some
pelvic problems during a laparoscopy.
Hysteroscopy: The physician inserts a viewing telescope called a
hysteroscope through the cervix to view and evaluate the uterine cavity.
The physician may be able to treat certain physical problems during a
hysteroscopy.
See a fertility specialist now
We're a national network of over 100 fertility specialists.