Fertility Tests

Fertility tests are ordered as part of the diagnostic infertility workup. These tests access the processes that must occur for successful conception and pregnancy. Fertility tests can be broadly divided according to which physiologic processes they evaluate.

In general, a sufficient quantity of "quality" sperm must be produced and ejaculated into the vagina. Sperm must swim through the cervical mucus where they are nourished, enter the uterus, and travel to the distal end of the fallopian tube where fertilization occurs.

A mature egg, capable of fertilization and development, must be ovulated from the ovarian follicle and travel to the end of the fallopian tube. One sperm must penetrate the zona pellucida (the membrane surrounding the egg) causing fertilization and the gametes must be free of genetic defects. The resultant embryo embeds in the endometrium and develops into a healthy fetus that can grow to maturity within the uterus.

We offer information on the major tests used to assess reproductive function in the male and female. The semen analyses can be considered a "series" of tests performed on the male's ejaculate. It is one of the most important procedures since over 47% of infertile couples have a male infertility component. The post coital test examines the interactions between the sperm and cervical mucus. Tests associated with ovulation include the BBT, ultrasound measurements, day 3 hormone level evaluations, progesterone and prolactin hormone measurements and urinary LH test kits. Structural abnormalities are ruled out using laparoscopy, the hysterosalpingogram, the hysteroscope, and vaginal probe ultrasound. Finally, the Clomid challenge test is a predictor of how the female will respond to ovulation induction and IVF.

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