Types of Fertility Tests for Women
There is value in investing in yourself and your career before having children, but waiting until you're older can make it more difficult to conceive. Fertility evaluations can help identify fertility status and possible issues so that informed family planning decisions can be made before it's too late.
At the Houston Fertility Center, Dr. Sonja B. Kristiansen offers a wide range of fertility services, including fertility tests for women. If you live in or around Houston, TX and would like more information about our services, we welcome you to schedule a consultation.
Types of Fertility Tests for Women
There are many different types of fertility tests for women that may be done in our Houston practice in order to evaluate fertility.
Fertility testing aims to determine several things, such as when ovulation is occurring, how the ovaries are functioning, and uterus function and anatomy. The following are some tests that may be performed to evaluate fertility.
Hormone Tests
Blood may be taken to test hormone levels, often during ovulation, and is frequently combined with other fertility testing. Blood tests may be taken at different times during a woman's cycle to measure hormone levels, such as follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) within the first few days of a woman's cycle. Assessing levels of FSH can help indicate what a woman's ovarian reserve looks like.
Ultrasound Evaluations
Ultrasound is often used as a non-invasive method for evaluating the uterus. Through ultrasound, ovarian follicles can be monitored and the anatomy of the uterus can be assessed. Ultrasound may also be performed repeatedly to check the size of ovarian follicles, the thickness of the uterine lining, and whether ovulation is occurring.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) X-Ray
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) x-ray is used to visualize the uterus and fallopian tubes. The HSG x-ray procedure uses a special dye that is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes through the cervix. Under x-ray, this dye can show if there are any blockages or abnormalities that may affect fertility.
Hysteroscopy
In the event an HSG x-ray reveals an abnormality, a closer look is often taken of the uterus through a procedure called a hysteroscopy. During this procedure, a small tube called a hysteroscope is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. This procedure makes it possible to see inside the uterus and take pictures of any growths, scarring, or other abnormalities.
Fertility Testing Can Help Determine Treatment
Fertility testing can help women get a better picture of what their fertility status is, such as how likely they may be able to become pregnant or whether there are fertility problems present. By having an idea of where fertility stands, treatments can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. For some women, fertility testing may lead them to freezing their eggs for future use. Other women may benefit from fertility testing to overcome infertility.
Learn More about Your Treatment Options
If you live in or around Houston and would like to learn more about fertility testing, call (713) 862-6181 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kristiansen.
