Fertility Tests

The selection of the most useful tests for you is based on a review of your reproductive history. This history, together with the result of your testing, will determine which treatment will most likely and inexpensively result in a pregnancy.

 

We plan your fertility testing around the three categories of infertility factors:

 

• Male factor infertility
• Ovulation and egg quality disorders
• Uterine and Fallopian tubes factors

 

As much as possible, we try to make use of reproductive test results done prior to your becoming a patient at Bay IVF Center to minimize your cost without compromising your treatment outcome. The following reproductive tests are an example of the most commonly performed tests at Bay IVF Center.

 

• Semen Evaluation

   

  A significant portion of all infertility is due to male factor infertility and the presence of male infertility has a major impact on the direction of fertility testing and treatment. Semen analysis can be useful in diagnosing the most severe forms of male factor infertility. The semen evaluation is a part of the prerequisites for advanced reproductive treatments.

   

• Ovarian Reserve Testing (Egg quality tests)

   

  We utilize a combination of transvaginal ultrasound examination of the ovaries and a dynamic, two-day reproductive hormone assay: Ovarian Reserve Assay (ORA) to estimate your “biological age”. The results of these tests will determine the most appropriate treatment for you.

   

  The ultrasound of your ovaries will determine the number of antral follicles within the ovaries. Their number is related to the quality of your eggs. Ideally, there should be 5 to 8 antral follicles per ovary.

   

  We measure follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (estrogen) levels in Ovarian Reserve Assay. FSH, produced by the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain, stimulates ovaries to produce eggs. If the ovaries cannot produce normal eggs, the FSH level is elevated. Estradiol production by the ovaries influences the FSH secretion and is also related to the quality of the eggs.

   

Please see Treatment Prerequisites for additional information on Ovarian Reserve Assay.

 

• Evaluation of the Uterus

   

  Your endometrial cavity must be free of polyps, scarring and myomas (fibroids) before any treatment can be initiated. The presence of any of these structures inside the uterus could significantly compromise the likelihood of embryo implantation.

   

  We use Sonohysterogram (saline ultrasound) to assess the endometrial cavity of your uterus. A thin, soft catheter is passed through the cervix inside the uterus and a small amount of sterile saline solution is gently instilled. A transvaginal ultrasound is used to confirm the absence of polyps, scarring, or fibroids inside the uterus.  

   

• Testing required by the State of California and FDA

   

  Hepatitis B-Surface Antigen, Hepatitis C-Antibody, HIV I&II, HTLV I&II, and Syphilis Screen are required as prerequisites for advanced reproductive treatments. In addition, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea tests are required for sperm or Egg Donation treatments.

 

Typically, all necessary testing can be performed within two to six weeks and then the most appropriate treatment can be initiated.

 

If you have any questions regarding fertility testing at Bay IVF Center, please contact us by phone at 650-322-0500 or via email at care@BayIVF.com.