What are the Various Tests Done Before Starting IVF?

The process of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is a crucial step in the journey of beginning or growing a family. Fertility experts perform a full range of diagnostic tests prior to the start of the actual cycle. The purpose of these evaluations is to determine whether there are any underlying problems contributing to the infertility and to make sure the procedure is safe, tailored to each person's unique case, and has the greatest possible likelihood of success.

Most clinics run a typical series of tests, but it may differ depending on the couple’s age, medical history and fertility problems.The basic types of tests include tests for hormones, infectious disease, and a physical check-up of the reproductive system.

Hormonal Assessments

Hormones are the chemical messengers of reproductive system organs. Before proceeding with IVF, it is necessary for the IVF treatment specialist to ascertain the ovarian reserve (the quantity and quality of eggs) as well as the endocrine health. This is usually done via blood tests done on certain days of the cycle (often day 2 or 3) to capture baseline levels.

• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): This test is regarded as the gold standard as it gives a good idea of how many eggs a woman has left.
• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Oestradiol: These numbers show how much effort the ovaries are putting in to producing eggs. For example, high levels of FSH might indicate a low level of ovarian reserve.
• Luteinising Hormone (LH): This is an important hormone that initiates ovulation. An abnormal level may indicate any problems with ovulation, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
• Prolactin and Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Prolactin and TSH help regulate metabolism and fertility. If imbalanced, these hormones interfere with ovulation and embryo implantation, which is why they need to be corrected prior to the start of the IVF cycle.

Physical Tests

In addition to the blood female fertility tests, physical examination is essential to assess the structural environment where the embryo will be implanted. 

• Ultrasound Examination: Transvaginal ultrasound is a commonly-used procedure for performing the Antral Follicle Count (AFC). It enables visual assessment of the ovaries and determination of the number of small follicles, which provides information about the body’s response to the fertility medications.
• Uterine and Fallopian Tube Examination: Saline sonohysterogram (SHG) or hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is a procedure used to see the uterus and fallopian tubes. The aim is to examine them for structural abnormalities such as polyps, fibroids, tube blockages, and more which interfere with implantation of the fertilised egg and may lead to complications during pregnancy. In some cases, hysteroscopy is done to visually examine and fix the abnormalities. 
• Semen Analysis: For men this comprehensive analysis is mandatory. It includes semen concentration, motility and morphology. In case problems are detected, ICSI or other advanced techniques can be used in the IVF process to help overcome male factor infertility.

Infectious Disease Screening and General Health

Patient safety always comes first, so both partners are tested for a range of infectious diseases such as HIV, Hepatitis B and C, syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhoea. Additionally, doctors typically check immunity status for rubella and chickenpox; if a patient isn’t immune, a vaccination might be needed first, which can push the treatment timeline back by a month or two. Finally, general health check-ups, including a complete blood count (CBC) to see if the body is anaemic or blood type identification, are done to ensure the body is ready to meet the physiological demands during pregnancy.

By understanding these requirements, women can approach their IVF journey with clarity and confidence. However, it is important to note that not all tests are compulsory for every couple; the doctor will assess the situation and decide what is needed. The diagnostic phase allows specialists to tailor a treatment plan and reduce the risk to parent and baby while offering the most accurate prognosis.

Author Bio 

The author is an experienced IVF specialist dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate fertility challenges. She is an expert in assisted reproductive technologies, IVF procedures as well as reproductive health. She combines her clinical knowledge with a personalised approach to fertility care to assist patients in understanding their treatment options.