Female Fertility Tests - Preliminary Tests

Preliminary female fertility tests are central to identifying the causes of female fertility problems as well as to assessing the most appropriate method of treatment for female infertility. Most of the preliminary fertility tests for women are fairly unobtrusive and are nothing to worry about. Read on to learn more about what to expect from preliminary fertility testing.

Blood Tests

Blood tests are one of the most common initial tests that evaluate female fertility. Blood tests measure hormone levels in order to assess reproductive system functioning. As such, blood tests are closely linked to a woman's reproductive cycle and as such must be performed at specific times during her menstrual cycle. This type of female infertility test assesses levels of such hormones as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone as well as prolactin.

Another common blood test used in when trying to diagnose female fertility problems is the estradiol test. This blood test can help determine information about a woman's eggs and how much estrogen she has in her body. You may also need to determine your ovarian reserve and find out if you are heading towards early menopause.

Seeing Inside

In addition, female fertility testing also includes an ultrasound scan, which is used to measure pelvic health as well as to evaluate structural problems that may exist in the uterus as well as any abnormalities with regard to egg maturation. This type of test can help to identify polycystic ovaries, fibroids and endometriosis. There is no better way to find out what is going on in there than to go in and take a look. But don't worry, a vaginal ultrasound scan is not painful and you will even be able to watch the doctor's ultrasound monitor and enjoy looking at pictures of your insides. It can really be pretty cool.

More Testing

Another test central to the preliminary stage of fertility testing for women is the post-coital test (PCT). Also used in certain cases as a male fertility test to assess sperm health, a post-coital test evaluates cervical mucus health, including the ability of the sperm to pass through the cervical mucus so that fertilization can occur.