Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estradiol (E2)

Between days 2-4 of your menstrual cycle, Dr. Allen may order preliminary bloodwork to be drawn to check the levels of FSH and E2. The two hormones are often a good indication of ovarian reserve as they are intimately involved in the production of healthy eggs leading to pregnancy. In preparation for ovulation, your body produces FSH to mature the growing egg. As the egg matures, the follicle containing the egg releases E2. At this stage of the menstrual cycle, low hormone levels are desirable.

Semen Analysis

A semen analysis can help Dr. Allen determine whether male factor infertility is a contributing factor to difficulty in conceiving. Four main semen and sperm characteristics are evaluated including volume, count, motility (the percent that are moving), and morphology (the percent that look normal). Should it be necessary, Dr. Allen may refer you to a urologist for additional testing.

Sonohysterogram

An sonohysterogram is an ultrasound procedure used to determine if there are any abnormalities in the uterus that may be interfering with pregnancy. The procedure is performed by placing a small catheter in the uterine cavity and injecting a small amount of saline, allowing Dr. Allen to visualize the uterine cavity. The procedure is simple and relatively painless and can be performed at our office during the first or second week of your menstrual cycle.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

An HSG is an x-ray procedure that is done to confirm that the fallopian tubes are open and that abnormalities are absent from the uterine cavity. The procedure is performed by injecting fluorescent dye into the uterus. Should everything be normal, the dye travels up through the uterus, down the fallopian tubes, and into the abdominal cavity.

Infectious Disease Testing

Infectious disease testing is required by the State of California for all patients donating reproductive tissue. The blood tests can be performed through your primary care provider or ordered by Dr. Allen.

This post is also available in: enEnglishzh-hans简体中文 (Chinese (Simplified))