Fertility Testing for Women
Understanding female fertility starts with a thorough evaluation of reproductive hormones, ovarian reserve, and anatomical health. At RSCNJ, we offer a full range of diagnostic tests for women, including:
- Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) Testing: A simple blood test that measures AMH levels to assess ovarian reserve, or the quantity of eggs remaining. AMH is one of the most reliable indicators of a woman's reproductive potential and helps guide treatment planning.
- Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) & Estradiol Testing: Measured on day 2 or 3 of the menstrual cycle, these blood tests evaluate how hard the pituitary gland is working to stimulate the ovaries and provide insight into egg quality and quantity.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound (Antral Follicle Count): A minimally invasive ultrasound exam that counts the visible follicles in the ovaries. This antral follicle count (AFC) offers a direct visual assessment of ovarian reserve and uterine anatomy.
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): An X-ray procedure that uses contrast dye to evaluate the uterine cavity and confirm whether the fallopian tubes are open (patent). This test is important for ruling out structural barriers to conception.
- Thyroid & Prolactin Testing: Hormonal imbalances involving the thyroid or prolactin levels can interfere with ovulation and overall reproductive function. These blood tests identify conditions that may be affecting fertility.
- Progesterone Testing: Measured in the mid-luteal phase, progesterone testing confirms whether ovulation has occurred and evaluates the uterine environment for embryo implantation.
Learn more about female fertility testing at RSCNJ, including next steps and what your results may mean.
Fertility Testing for Men
Male factor infertility contributes to roughly half of all fertility challenges, making comprehensive male evaluation an essential part of any couple's workup. RSCNJ offers the following diagnostic tests for men:
- Semen Analysis: The foundational test for male fertility, a semen analysis evaluates sperm count (concentration), motility (movement), morphology (shape), and volume. Results help identify whether a sperm factor is contributing to difficulty conceiving.
- Hormone Testing: Blood tests measuring testosterone, FSH, LH, and other hormones help evaluate whether the endocrine system is supporting healthy sperm production. Hormonal imbalances can often be treated.
- Physical Examination: A urological exam may be recommended to detect structural issues such as a varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum) or other anatomical factors that can impact sperm production or delivery.
- Post-Ejaculate Urinalysis: This test checks for sperm in the urine after ejaculation, which may indicate retrograde ejaculation, a condition in which sperm travel backward into the bladder instead of being expelled normally.
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing: This advanced test evaluates the integrity of the sperm's genetic material. High levels of DNA fragmentation can affect fertilization and embryo development, even when standard semen analysis results appear normal.
Explore our male fertility evaluation services for more detailed information.
Genetic Testing
Genetic testing plays an important role in helping patients achieve a healthy pregnancy, particularly for those undergoing IVF. At RSCNJ, we offer preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) as part of our comprehensive fertility care – allowing embryos to be screened for chromosomal abnormalities or specific inherited conditions before transfer to the uterus.
- PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidies): PGT-A screens embryos for chromosomal abnormalities – such as an incorrect number of chromosomes – that are a leading cause of implantation failure, miscarriage, and conditions like Down syndrome. Transferring chromosomally normal (euploid) embryos improves IVF success rates and reduces the risk of pregnancy loss.
- PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders): PGT-M is recommended for individuals or couples who carry a known single-gene mutation associated with a hereditary condition, such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, or BRCA mutations. This testing allows unaffected embryos to be identified and prioritized for transfer.
Genetic testing is typically discussed during your fertility evaluation and recommended based on your medical history, age, and treatment plan. Our physicians will explain whether PGT is appropriate for your situation and what to expect throughout the process.
Your Fertility Evaluation: What to Expect
Your first fertility evaluation at RSCNJ is a conversation, not just a clinical appointment. Our goal is to understand your full picture medically, emotionally, and personally, so we can build a plan that's right for you. Here is what you can generally expect:
During Your Evaluation:
- Review of your personal and family medical history, including any past pregnancies or fertility treatments
- A detailed discussion of your reproductive goals and timeline
- Physical examination, which may include a transvaginal ultrasound to assess the ovaries and uterine lining
- Blood draws for hormonal and ovarian reserve testing (AMH, FSH, estradiol, etc.)
- For couples: a semen analysis will be ordered for the male partner at or around the same time
- Discussion of initial findings and a preliminary overview of possible next steps
How to Prepare:
- Bring any relevant medical records, including prior fertility tests, surgical reports, or imaging
- Track your menstrual cycle in the weeks before your visit, including cycle length and any irregularities
- Make a list of all current medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking
- Note any symptoms that may be relevant, such as irregular periods, pelvic pain, or prior STIs
- Write down your questions in advance so nothing gets left out
The fertility evaluation is a collaborative, information-gathering process. You will leave with a clearer understanding of your reproductive health and a compassionate team ready to guide your next steps. No decisions need to be made on the day of your visit – the evaluation is simply the starting point.