Hormone Testing

Blood tests allow fertility doctors to evaluate hormones and test for male and female infertility problems. Like the semen analysis, this is one of the less-invasive forms of fertility testing available. Because blood tests are relatively simple to perform, hormone testing is usually one of the first fertility evaluations specialists perform when testing for infertility problems.

Female Hormone Testing

Various hormones affect the reproductive process. When a woman undergoes hormone testing in an attempt to diagnose female infertility problems, the following hormone levels are typically evaluated:

• Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
• Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
• Estradiol
• Progesterone
• Prolactin
• Free T3
• Free T4
• Total Testosterone
• Free Testosterone
• DHEAS                   
• Androstenedione   
• SHBG
• 17 Hydroxyprogesterone
• Fasting Insulin

Hormone testing takes place on the third day of the woman's menstrual cycle. At this time, the fertility specialist establishes baseline FSH and LH levels, while other hormone levels can be evaluated for imbalances.

The second hormone testing appointment occurs a day or two before ovulation, during the LH surge. At this time, FSH and LH levels are measured and evaluated again. Low and high levels of these hormones may be a sign of fertility problems.

Potential Female Infertility Problems Caused by Hormonal Imbalances

High levels of FSH and LH can lower the quality of eggs and indicate ovarian problems; low levels of FSH and LH can be a sign of a pituitary or hypothalumus disorder that is causing infertility problems.

High estrogen levels could affect egg quality, while low progesterone levels can indicate an ovulation problem.

Male Hormone Testing

Abnormal levels of male hormones can cause fertility problems in men. The following hormone levels are generally evaluated in men:

●    Testosterone
●    Free Testosterone
●    Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
●    Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
●    Prolactin
●    Estradiol
●    Progesterone

Potential Male Infertility Problems Caused by Hormonal Imbalances

High levels of FSH and LH can be a sign of testicular problems, such as primary testicular failure.

Set Up a Consultation with a Fertility Doctor

If you are interested in undergoing fertility testing to find out if you or your partner suffers from infertility problems, contact a fertility clinic in your area to schedule an appointment.