One of the first steps on your fertility journey is fertility testing - a crucial step in determining your unique treatment plan. Fertility testing helps to uncover what may be causing your fertility issues so your medical team can begin to determine the right treatment plan for you. In this first blog in the Pathway to Treatment Series, Generation Fertility's reproductive health specialist Dr. Ingrid Lai breaks down the tests involved and what you can expect from the fertility testing process.
Fertility testing happens early in your fertility journey. There are tests required for egg-providing and sperm-providing people. According to Dr. Lai, fertility testing typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to complete after your initial consultation, depending on our test booking availability and the menstrual cycle, as some tests need to be timed with a period. This may sound daunting already, but you don't need to worry, one of our caring clinic staff will assist in booking your required fertility tests following your initial consultation.
What Fertility Tests Might I Expect?
The fertility tests typically performed are described below. It is important to keep in mind, fertility testing is specific and unique to each person, so some of the below tests may not need to be required based on your situation.
Physical Examination
This may involve assessing your height, weight, blood pressure, and/or pelvic exam among others.
Ultrasound
An internal transvaginal pelvic ultrasound is a test that produces images that are used to assess organs and structures within the pelvis.
Sonohysterogram
Assesses the health of your fallopian tubes and uterus. An ultrasound is performed during which a harmless saline solution or foam contrast is injected to help with visualization of the fallopian tubes, the uterine cavity, and the shape of the uterus.
Blood Work
Blood samples are drawn to see if you have any conditions or infections, and to see your immunity to certain viruses that may influence fertility. Key fertility hormones are also evaluated - follicle stimulation hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, and progesterone.
Urine Test, Vaginal Swabs, and/or Pap Test
These allow your doctor to test for infections (e.g., chlamydia) and cervical irregularities.
Semen Analysis
Freshly ejaculated sperm are analyzed under a microscope to determine their quantity, motility (movement), and morphology (appearance).
Laparoscopy or Hysteroscopy
Occasionally, surgery is performed to look at your reproductive organs (uterus, fallopian tubes, etc.) and to check for certain conditions such as endometriosis.
A laparoscopy is a type of surgery involving a very small incisions on the abdomen.
A hysteroscopy is a type of surgery that's performed through the vagina and does not require any incisions.
It may feel overwhelming - and it's natural to have questions. At Generation Fertiilty, Dr. Lai assures that patients have a caring team beside them every step of the way who are there to answer any questions or concerns you may have.
All fertility tests can be done at Generation Fertility. Once complete, your Fertility Specialist will be able to determine a unique treatment plan to move forward with that gives you the best chance for pregnancy success based on your individual situation.
How Much Does Fertility Testing Cost?
Each patient's fertility journey is unique, making it hard to determine a specific cost for fertility testing. Once we understand your speific fertility situation a little better, following your first consultation, we can give you a clearer sense of what to expect. Financial counselling and financing options are available according to your treatment plan. In the meantime, click here to learn more about pricing.
We understand that medical tests of any kind aren't fun or necessarily comfortable to endure. We make it our priority to make our patients feel cared for and comfortable at every step. If you have any questions about fertility testing, our dedicated team is here to help you.
