Blood Test for Infertility in Female - What to Expect, Results
Infertility can be a challenging journey for any couple trying to conceive. While several factors can cause infertility, it is essential to understand the root cause of the problem to increase the chances of successful conception. One of the crucial steps in diagnosing infertility in females is undergoing a blood test. A blood test for infertility female is a comprehensive diagnostic tool that can help identify hormonal imbalances, ovarian reserve, and other factors that may affect fertility.
Fertility tests in women include a variety of minimally invasive procedures like scans, blood tests and more. Once the doctor identifies the problem with the help of reports obtained from the diagnostic test for female infertility, dedicated treatments can be provided to the female according to the individual needs and the specific cause. Fertility blood tests are often an effective indicator for understanding a woman’s reproductive health.
When to get Tested for Infertility?
If a woman has been engaging in unprotected intercourse for 12 months without success in getting pregnant, it is essential to seek medical assistance and get tested for infertility.
- Women above 35 or those with a history of irregular menstrual cycles, repetitive miscarriages, pelvic inflammatory disease, or issues with the uterus, tubes or abdominal cavity, like endometriosis or adhesions, should consider testing after six months of regular sex.
- Seeking medical assistance early can help diagnose and treat fertility issues before they worsen and improve the chances of successful conception.
- Fertility blood tests for females are one of the most crucial tests for women trying to get pregnant. Evaluation for infertility must be done in an observant and cost-effective style. The least invasive methods should be taken up first to detect the most typical grounds of infertility.
The pace and scope of evaluation will consider the couple’s preference, the woman’s age, the period of their infertility, and the characteristics affecting their medical record and physical examination.
The diagnostic test for female infertility often involves:
- Pelvic examination
- A conversation regarding medical records, mainly to study ovulation or menstrual cycle problems.
- Minimally invasive methods, such as ultrasound imaging (sonogram) and surgery, to inspect the structural causes of infertility.
- Discussion about fertility blood tests studying hormone levels and ovarian reserve, which means the number of potential eggs remaining in a woman’s ovaries.
Different Blood Tests for Infertility in Females
A blood test for infertility female is crucial because it helps to diagnose underlying medical conditions that could be contributing to fertility problems. These tests can measure hormone levels, identify fertility infections, and check for genetic abnormalities that could impact reproductive health.
By identifying these issues early on, healthcare providers can develop a personalised treatment plan for the patient. Early detection of infertility problems can also prevent unnecessary delays in starting treatment and reduce the risk of further complications.
A blood test for infertility female is an essential tool for identifying and treating fertility issues in females and can help increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Some fertility blood tests that can help determine the reproductive health of a woman include:
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Testing
FSH test is a fertility blood test for female performed on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle. It helps manage a woman’s menstrual cycle and the development of follicles in the ovaries responsible for holding eggs. This test checks the egg supply and the functioning of the ovary.
Luteinising Hormone (LH) Test
LH test is a fertility blood test for female, and LH is responsible for triggering ovulation. A high level of LH indicates that the ovaries are not responding to hormonal stimulation. If you are experiencing difficulty getting pregnant, your healthcare provider may perform a luteinising hormone test during your menstrual cycle.
This test can help diagnose hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Checking the LH levels on day 14 of a 28-day menstrual cycle can determine if ovulation is occurring, making it easier to identify the most fertile period of the menstrual cycle.
Analysing the LH levels at the start of the menstrual cycle makes it possible to diagnose any hormonal issues affecting fertility.
Serum Progesterone
Progesterone is a female hormone that prepares the endometrial lining of the uterus and trains it to receive the fertilised egg. Ovaries produce this hormone during the ovulation process. This test is conducted just before the menstrual cycle of the female.
Androgen
Testosterone is the most renowned androgen known to affect both women and men. In women, these fertility blood tests explained conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Estradiol
The Estradiol test is performed to scan the egg's quality and measure the ovary's functions. Like FSH, this test is also conducted on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle.
Prolactin Test
Prolactin is a hormone that stimulates milk production in breastfeeding women. A high level of prolactin can interfere with ovulation and lead to infertility. This test can also be done for men who show specific signs regarding their sexual health.
Additional Tests for Infertility in Females
Choosing a diagnostic test for female infertility apart from the blood tests can also help better understand the fertility stage of a woman. Below are some of the most common tests that assist in gauging the reproductive health of a woman:
Imaging
- Hysterosalpingo-Contrast Sonography: It is a non-invasive diagnostic test used to evaluate the fallopian tubes and uterus in women experiencing infertility.
t is a type of ultrasound that uses a contrast agent, such as saline or a solution containing tiny gas bubbles, to highlight the uterus and fallopian tubes.
The contrast agent is injected through the cervix and into the uterus during the procedure while an ultrasound monitors its progress. The contrast agent then flows through the fallopian tubes, allowing the doctor to see if there are any blockages or other abnormalities that may be preventing pregnancy.
It is a quick and painless procedure that can be performed in an outpatient setting. It provides valuable information about the structure and function of the uterus and fallopian tubes, helping doctors to identify any underlying causes of infertility. - Pelvic Ultrasound: Pelvic ultrasound is a diagnostic test for female infertility used to identify potential causes of infertility in women.
This non-invasive imaging test can help identify various conditions affecting the reproductive system, including polyps, fibroids, ovarian cysts, and other structural abnormalities that may impact fertility.
During a pelvic ultrasound, a specially trained technician or doctor will use a handheld device called a transducer to emit high-frequency sound waves through the pelvic area. These waves bounce off internal structures and produce images that can be viewed on a screen.
By analysing these images, healthcare providers can identify any potential issues contributing to infertility.
Surgical Procedures
- Hysteroscopy: Hysteroscopy is a medical procedure used to examine the inside of the uterus in women experiencing infertility or other menstrual issues.
It involves the insertion of a minor, lighted camera, called a hysteroscope, through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. The camera displays images of the uterine lining, allowing doctors to identify any abnormalities or conditions causing infertility or other issues.
Hysteroscopy is especially useful in diagnosing and treating conditions that can lead to infertility, such as uterine fibroids, polyps, or adhesions. It can also help doctors identify problems with the shape or size of the uterus that can prevent a fertilised egg from implanting correctly or can lead to recurrent miscarriages. - Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that can investigate infertility in females. The procedure involves the insertion of a thin tube with a camera (laparoscope) through a small incision in the lower tummy, allowing doctors to examine the reproductive organs such as the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.
If blockages or abnormalities are found, such as endometriosis or scar tissue, they can be removed or corrected during the same procedure. Dye may also be injected into the fallopian tubes to check for any blockages. This can help doctors to determine the cause of infertility in women.
Laparoscopy is often used when other diagnostic tests, such as ultrasounds and blood tests, have been inconclusive or if the patient has a history of pelvic inflammatory disease.
Conditions Affecting Fertility in Women
It is essential to note that a woman’s fertility is affected by some factors. These tend to either increase or decrease her chances of getting pregnant. Some of the most crucial factors which influence fertility in women include the following:
- Endometriosis: Endometriosis can cause scarring and inflammation, which can lead to fertility problems. It can also affect the quality of eggs and interfere with the implantation of a fertilised egg.Endometriosis can also cause changes in the hormonal environment, which can affect ovulation and fertility.
- Fallopian Tube Damage or Blockage: Fallopian tube damage or blockage can prevent the egg and sperm from meeting, making fertilisation difficult. Sometimes, the fertilised egg may implant in the fallopian tube, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. Thus, fallopian tube damage or blockage can significantly affect fertility in women.
- Ovulation Disorders: This includes hormonal disturbances like polycystic ovary syndrome. Production of too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) can influence the menstrual cycle or cause infertility in women.
- Cervical Abnormalities: Cervical abnormalities can impact fertility in women by making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus or reach the egg.This can be caused by conditions such as cervical stenosis or cervical mucus abnormalities, which can be diagnosed through imaging tests and physical exams.
Takeaway
A blood test for infertility in female is an essential step in diagnosing and treating fertility problems. These tests can help identify hormonal imbalances, thyroid issues, and other health conditions that may affect a woman’s ability to conceive. While many different blood tests can be performed, each serves a unique purpose in determining the root cause of infertility.
We at HexaHealth can help you conceive easily and have a seamless pregnancy. Putting their rich experience into action, our experts ensure you quickly get the required medical assistance. We also assist in navigating through your initial concerns and taking care of the necessary testing. Connect with us today and learn all about our offered medical services.Frequently Asked Questions
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Updated on : 16 March 2023
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Dr. Arti Sharma
MBBS, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Diploma In Cosmetic Gynaecology
8 Years Experience
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