Navigating your own fertility can be challenging, but with the right tools and knowledge, it becomes a journey of empowerment. Fertility tests are those key tools, shedding light on your reproductive potential and acting as a roadmap for creating a customized treatment plan with your fertility doctor.
This is your guide to some of the most common fertility tests, which can be done prior to starting treatment or through our $99 Fertility Awareness Check, to help you understand what each test means and what they reveal to your reproductive endocrinologist.
AMH Test – Assessing the Ovarian Reserve
Ever wondered how many eggs are in your ovaries? The Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) test takes a closer look at your ovarian reserve – or your reservoir of potential future eggs. The higher the AMH levels in your blood, the more abundant the eggs in your ovaries. This invaluable data gives your doctor a snapshot of your fertility lifespan. It also helps gauge the likely response to medications during fertility treatments such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) & Estradiol Test – Evaluating Ovarian Function
FSH and estradiol are measured together to paint a more complete picture of your ovarian reserve, usually on the 3rd day of your menstrual cycle. FSH released from the pituitary tells the eggs in your ovaries to gear up for ovulation by stimulating the growth of follicles. Estradiol, a form of estrogen, is produced by these growing follicles.
Higher than average FSH could signify that your ovarian reserve or function may be falling and that your body is trying to overcompensate for a decline in egg quantity or quality by ramping up the production of FSH. High estradiol levels may indicate that ovarian reserve is decreased. Measuring estradiol with FSH can also help determine if your result is accurate. Both normal FSH and Normal estradiol are important for ovarian reserve.
Ultrasound – A Closer Look at the Reproductive System
Imagine your doctor having a real-time window into your reproductive system – this is exactly what an ultrasound shows us. Antral follicle count (AFC) tests look at the number of egg-containing follicles developing in both of your ovaries through transvaginal ultrasound on day 3 of your period. This test informs the doctor of your potential eggs available during this cycle and your expected response to ovarian stimulation drugs during treatment. It’s important to note that these test results can vary from month to month, so up-to-date ultrasounds are essential during treatment. Ultrasounds can also uncover silent issues disrupting your journey to conception, such as fibroids, polyps, ovarian cysts and other anatomical abnormalities.
Semen Analysis – Evaluating Male Fertility
Semen analysis looks at sperm quantity, shape, movement, and even the seminal fluid’s volume. Each of these elements plays a pivotal role in conception.
Sperm count, or the total number of sperm present, sets the stage for a potential pregnancy. With a high sperm count, the odds of one reaching and fertilizing an egg increase.
Morphology, or the form and structure of the sperm, is reviewed because abnormal shapes can hinder the sperm’s ability to penetrate an egg.
Motility is assessed to see if the sperm can make the arduous journey up the female reproductive tract to reach the egg. Even the best swimmers struggle, so the volume and quality of this fluid are evaluated, too.
What These Tests Mean for Your Doctor
Fertility testing is like piecing together an intricate jigsaw puzzle of your reproductive health. Tests construct a holistic view of your fertility, spotlighting potential roadblocks and determining the most fertile periods. Based on the results of your fertility testing, your doctor may also order additional tests to gain further insight into your reproductive health. All these tests enable your doctor to customize a treatment strategy that suits your unique fertility profile, thus increasing your chances of successfully realizing your dream of parenthood.
So, remember, each fertility test you undertake is a significant stride forward on your journey. It’s a step closer to understanding, a step closer to resolution, and most importantly, a step closer to holding your future in your arms.
Want to learn more about your reproductive potential for just $99? Schedule a Fertility Awareness Check today by calling 877.824.4482 or requesting an appointment online. The Fertility Awareness Check is the most predictive fertility test designed to provide an overview of your reproductive potential. The check can test eggs, sperm or both.
