Fertility Testing for Women
Female fertility depends on several delicately coordinated processes. When any part of that system is disrupted, it can create barriers to conception that are not identifiable without targeted testing. Our diagnostic approach for female patients is thorough, drawing from a range of evaluations to build a complete and accurate picture of your reproductive health. Key tests offered include:
- AMH Testing (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): A blood test that estimates ovarian reserve, which refers to the quantity of eggs remaining in the ovaries.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: An imaging study using a small internal probe to examine the uterus and ovaries in detail, assess antral follicle count, and identify structural concerns such as fibroids, cysts, or polyps.
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): An X-ray-based procedure that uses contrast dye to evaluate the uterine cavity and confirm whether the fallopian tubes are open and unobstructed.
- Saline Infusion Sonogram (SIS): A targeted imaging procedure in which sterile saline is introduced into the uterine cavity to enhance visualization of the uterine lining and detect abnormalities that a standard ultrasound may not fully capture.
- Hormonal Blood Panel: Measures key reproductive hormones, such as FSH, LH, estradiol, prolactin, and thyroid hormones, to identify imbalances that may be interfering with ovulation or overall reproductive function.
- Ovulation Assessment: Evaluates whether ovulation is occurring consistently, using progesterone testing, cycle tracking, or ultrasound monitoring.
- Genetic Testing: Carrier screening and chromosomal analysis, recommended based on personal or family history.
Every fertility workup is tailored to the individual. Age, symptoms, medical history, and family-building goals all influence which tests may be recommended. For more information, visit our Female Fertility Testing page.
Fertility Testing for Men
Male fertility is an essential part of any complete evaluation. Male factors contribute to approximately half of all infertility cases, and identifying them early is critical to developing an accurate and effective treatment plan. Diagnostic evaluations for male patients at Indiana Fertility Institute include:
- Semen Analysis: The primary tool for assessing male fertility. Evaluates sperm count, motility, morphology, and semen volume to determine whether sperm health may be contributing to fertility challenges.
- Hormone Testing: A blood panel measuring testosterone, FSH, LH, and prolactin to evaluate whether a hormonal imbalance is affecting sperm production.
- Medical History and Physical Examination: A detailed review of health history alongside a physical exam, allowing the physician to identify structural findings and other factors that may be influencing fertility.
- Genetic Testing: Including carrier screening, karyotype testing, and chromosomal microarray analysis, recommended when sperm counts are severely low or absent, or when genetic factors are suspected.
For a full overview of male fertility testing, visit our Male Fertility Testing page.
Genetic Testing
Genetic evaluation has become a foundational element of comprehensive fertility care. At Indiana Fertility Institute, genetic testing is integrated throughout the evaluation and treatment process when necessary.
Before treatment begins, carrier screening allows individuals and couples to determine whether either partner carries gene variants linked to heritable conditions that could be passed to a future child. Chromosomal analysis may also be recommended when a genetic contributor to infertility is suspected.
For patients undergoing IVF, preimplantation genetic testing offers the ability to screen embryos for chromosomal or genetic concerns before transfer:
- PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy): Evaluates embryos for extra or missing chromosomes — one of the most common causes of failed implantation and early pregnancy loss. Selecting chromosomally normal embryos for transfer can meaningfully improve IVF success rates.
- PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders): Allows patients with a known single-gene condition in the family to test embryos for that specific disorder prior to transfer, reducing the risk of passing a hereditary disease to a child.
- PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements): Designed for patients who carry chromosomal structural abnormalities, PGT-SR screens embryos to identify those most likely to result in a successful pregnancy.
For more information, visit our Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) page.
Your Fertility Evaluation: What to Expect
Before recommendations can be made, your physician needs to understand your health history, reproductive goals, and any factors that may be influencing fertility.
While every evaluation is personalized, your first visit may include:
- A discussion about how long you have been trying to conceive, if applicable
- Review of your medical, surgical, and reproductive history
- Conversation about lifestyle factors, medications, and family health history
- Assessment of menstrual cycles, ovulation patterns, and prior pregnancies
- Physical examination
- Time to discuss questions, concerns, and future family-building goals
To prepare for your appointment, it can be helpful to:
- Bring records from previous fertility evaluations or treatments
- Keep track of recent menstrual cycles and ovulation data
- Create a list of current medications, vitamins, and supplements
- Gather information about relevant family medical history
- Write down any questions you would like to discuss with your physician
Above all, your fertility evaluation is meant to be collaborative. Instead of running through a checklist, our physicians take the time to understand your full situation, ensuring you leave with a plan that feels right for you.