Your fertility evaluation will help determine what makes the most sense for your fertility journey
Here are some of the fertility tests you may experience during your fertility journey
Physical exam
Pelvic exam may be performed during a physical exam to check the size and shape of your uterus, ovaries, and other internal and external organs.
Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound helps check your uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and pelvic area. This specific kind of ultrasound is done by placing a probe directly into the vagina to better view the anatomy and condition of the uterus and ovaries. The uterus is checked for structural abnormalities, and the ovaries are checked for cysts.
Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscopy helps your fertility specialist better see the uterine cavity to diagnose or treat problems of the uterus.
Hysterosalpingogram
A hysterosalpingogram, also called an HSG test, is a type of x-ray that checks for any issues in the fallopian tubes and can detect some uterine cavity problems.
Laboratory tests
Tests for women and menThe FSH test is one of several key tools for diagnosing infertility in men and women.
For women:
- Egg development: FSH helps stimulate growth and prepares eggs for ovulation
- Ovarian reserve check: The test helps estimate the number of eggs left in the ovaries when measured at a specific time in the menstrual cycle
For men:
- Sperm health: FSH is crucial for the production and quality of sperm
- Infertility insights: Test results can help explain infertility or low sperm count
FSH levels are checked with a blood test. Women may also have an estradiol test alongside to better interpret FSH results. Because FSH works with luteinizing hormone (LH) in reproduction, a test for LH is often performed at the same time.
The LH test is an important complement to other tests that help physicians diagnose infertility problems.
For women:
- Ovulation trigger: A quick rise in LH levels initiates the release of an egg
- Ovarian function: The test can help predict when ovulation will happen and if a medical condition is impacting the ovaries
For men:
- Testosterone production: LH is essential for making testosterone, a hormone necessary for making sperm
- Infertility clues: Test results can help explain infertility or low sperm count
LH levels are typically checked with a blood test, often alongside FSH levels. At-home urine tests can also track ovulation timing.
AMH tests are among the most frequently used evaluations of egg supply (ovarian reserve) because AMH levels closely correspond to a woman's egg count. AMH testing can also help diagnose an ovarian mass. An AMH test is a blood test.
The estradiol test works with the FSH test to measure the number of eggs in the ovaries (ovarian reserve) and make sense of the FSH results. It is not used as a standalone test to check for infertility. An estradiol test is a blood test but can also be done using a urine sample.
Progesterone is important for ovulation, and an increase can indicate that a woman has ovulated. A blood test can determine your progesterone levels.
Measuring thyroid hormone levels can help your doctor determine if you have a thyroid disorder. Thyroid problems can lead to infertility, irregular periods, and miscarriages. TSH is measured with a blood test.
Prolactin is a hormone that regulates the balance of other hormones in the body. Elevated levels of prolactin can cause abnormal ovulation. A blood test can help determine your prolactin levels. Prolactin tests are usually not done unless there are other symptoms, such as an irregular period.
Semen analysis is a crucial part of fertility testing. This lab test determines a man’s sperm count, movement, and appearance and shape. Often, the sample must be analyzed within 1 hour of collection.
Your fertility care team may need to collect blood, urine, or semen samples for tests. Some additional testing may be necessary for specific treatment options.
Download these helpful questions about fertility
evaluations as a printable worksheet
Fertility evaluation worksheet
