Fertility Tests for Women Can Include Ovulation Testing.

For a woman to be fertile, the ovaries must release healthy eggs regularly, and her reproductive tract must allow the eggs and sperm to pass into her fallopian tubes to become fertilized by a sperm. Her reproductive organs must be healthy and functional. Dr. Mathews offers complete evaluation of infertility for women with a compassionate, experienced and dedicated staff, and comfortable surroundings. Insert picture of couple consult

Specific fertility tests for women may include:

Ovulation testing. A blood test is sometimes performed to measure hormone levels to determine whether you are ovulating.

Post Coital Testing. The test checks a woman’s cervical mucus after sex to see whether sperm are present and moving normally. This test may be used if a woman is not able to become pregnant (infertility) and other tests have not found a cause. The test is done 1 to 2 days before ovulation when the cervical mucus is thin and stretchy and sperm can easily move through it into the uterus. Within 2 to 8 hours after you have sex, we collect a sample of the mucus and evaluate sperm movement.

Hysterosalpingography. This test evaluates the condition of your uterus and fallopian tubes. Fluid is injected into your uterus, and an X-ray is taken to determine whether the fluid progresses out of the uterus and into your fallopian tubes. Blockage or problems often can be located and may be corrected with surgery.

Laparoscopy. Performed under general anesthesia, this procedure involves inserting a small scope into your abdomen and pelvis to examine your fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus. The most common problems identified by laparoscopy are endometriosis and scarring. Your doctor can also detect blockages or irregularities of the fallopian tubes and uterus. Laparoscopy generally is done on an outpatient basis.

Hormone testing. Hormone tests may be done to check levels of ovulatory hormones as well as thyroid and pituitary hormones.

Ovarian reserve testing. Testing may be done to determine the potential effectiveness of the eggs after ovulation. This approach often begins with hormone testing early in a woman’s menstrual cycle, usually a Day 3 FSH and measurement of Estrogen levels. Anti-Mullerian Hormone is also measured and an ultrasound is performed for ovarian volume.
Genetic testing. Genetic testing may be done to determine whether there’s a genetic defect causing infertility.

Pelvic ultrasound. Pelvic ultrasound may be done to look for uterine or fallopian tube disease.