Why Fertility Blood Testing Matters in Diagnosing Infertility
Trying to conceive without success can lead to discouragement and frustration. If you are looking for answers, David T. Vandermolen MD, our Northern Louisiana fertility doctor, has the skill and expertise needed for diagnosing infertility and providing necessary treatments. One tool Dr. Vandermolen uses to assist in identifying any barriers to pregnancy is fertility blood testing.
Fertility blood testing unlocks the keys to treatment
To make the best treatment recommendations, our Northern Louisiana fertility doctor needs a complete picture of any relevant details for diagnosing infertility. Common causes of infertility include hormone imbalances, anatomical abnormalities and certain medical conditions. With fertility blood testing, Dr. Vandermolen will obtain one more piece to the fertility diagnosis puzzle.
Understanding common fertility blood work
Generally, we begin the process with a full fertility evaluation, which includes a complete medical history, physical exam and fertility blood testing. Your partner will also need to provide a sample for a semen analysis to rule out any male factor infertility issues. These initial tests will evaluate the health of the eggs and sperm, as well as ensure that hormone levels are in the normal range.
The fertility blood work usually includes a set of specific tests.
- Ovarian reserve testing
By analyzing Day 3 FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), Day 3 Estradiol (estrogen) and other critical hormones, such as inhibin B, we can determine how your reproductive system performs during ovulation. - Luteal phase testing
A review of progesterone levels, sometimes combined with an endometrial biopsy, can reveal if any issues exist with the uterine lining and its ability to support a pregnancy. - General hormone testing
Dr. Vandermolen will order a complete hormone panel to see if any of your levels are out of balance, including AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), prolactin, free T3, DHEA, insulin and androgens. - Infectious disease screening
Before any infertility treatment, we will need to ensure that you and your partner are healthy and won’t risk passing any infectious diseases on to your potential children. - Testosterone testing for male partners
If your partner doesn’t produce enough testosterone, it could affect your odds of getting pregnant on your own.
Don’t let difficulty conceiving stop you from building or expanding your family. Dr. Vandermolen and the team at ArkLaTex Fertility and Reproductive Medicine can offer the compassionate support and top-notch medical care you deserve. Call our office for more information about fertility blood testing or to schedule an appointment.