Your Infertility Test Results: A Guide for Women - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Infertility test results?


Hello Doctor: I am currently 25 years old and have been experiencing irregular menstruation (missed periods).
My husband and I have been trying to conceive for two years without success, so I underwent some blood tests.
I would like your help in reviewing my abnormal blood test results:
1.
Progesterone Immunoassay (09105C) Result: 0.14 ng/mL
2.
Estradiol Immunoassay Result: 116.0 pg/mL
3.
Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibody Result: 9.0 U/mL
4.
Antinuclear Antibody (Indirect Immunofluorescence) Result: 1:80 Negative
5.
Complement 4 Immunoturbidimetry Result: 20.2 mg/dL
6.
Complement 3 Immunoturbidimetry Result: 155.0 mg/dL
7.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Immunoassay Result: 3.200 uIU/mL
8.
Luteinizing Hormone Immunoassay Result: 7.26 mIU/mL
9.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone Immunoassay Result: 4.7 mIU/mL
10.
Testosterone Immunoassay Result: 25 ng/dL
11.
Prolactin Immunoassay Result: 24.3 ng/mL
12.
Triiodothyronine Immunoassay Result: 127.0 ng/dL
Thank you very much for your assistance!

Kassia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/10/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the hormonal levels are fine.
For more detailed information, you may want to consult your obstetrician-gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/10/14

More Info


Understanding infertility test results can be overwhelming, especially when you have been trying to conceive for an extended period without success. Based on the blood test results you provided, let's break down the key hormone levels and their implications for your fertility.

1. Progesterone (0.14 ng/mL): This level is quite low, especially if measured during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle (after ovulation). Progesterone is crucial for preparing the uterine lining for implantation of a fertilized egg. Low levels may indicate that ovulation is not occurring regularly, which could be a significant factor in your difficulty conceiving.

2. Estradiol (116.0 pg/mL): This is a form of estrogen, and while this level can vary throughout the menstrual cycle, it is generally considered within a normal range for the follicular phase. However, if this measurement was taken during the luteal phase, it might be on the lower side, which could also affect your ability to conceive.

3. Anti-TPO (9.0 U/mL): This test measures thyroid antibodies. A result of 9.0 is typically considered normal, indicating that there is no autoimmune thyroid disease present, which is good news as thyroid issues can impact fertility.

4. TSH (3.200 uIU/mL): Thyroid-stimulating hormone levels within the range of 0.4 to 4.0 uIU/mL are generally considered normal. However, some fertility specialists prefer TSH levels to be below 2.5 for optimal fertility. Your level is slightly above this threshold, which may warrant further monitoring or evaluation of thyroid function.

5. LH (7.26 mIU/mL) and FSH (4.7 mIU/mL): These hormones are involved in regulating the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Your LH level is within the normal range, but FSH is on the lower side. A low FSH level can indicate that your ovaries are not responding optimally, which could affect ovulation.

6. Prolactin (24.3 ng/mL): Elevated prolactin levels can interfere with ovulation. Normal prolactin levels are typically below 25 ng/mL, so your result is at the upper limit. If prolactin levels are high, it may be worth investigating further, as this can be treated.

7. Testosterone (25 ng/dL): This level is generally considered low for women. Elevated testosterone can be associated with conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and difficulty conceiving.

8. C3 and C4 Complement Levels: These tests are typically used to assess the immune system and are not directly related to fertility. Your results appear normal.

In summary, your hormone levels indicate that there may be issues with ovulation, particularly due to low progesterone and possibly low FSH. Irregular menstrual cycles can complicate the picture, as they may suggest that ovulation is not occurring regularly.

Recommendations:
- Consult a Fertility Specialist: Given the complexity of your results, it would be beneficial to consult with a fertility specialist who can provide a comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment options.

- Consider Further Testing: Additional tests may include an ultrasound to check for ovarian function, a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to assess the fallopian tubes, and possibly genetic testing.

- Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and ensuring a balanced diet can positively impact your hormonal balance and overall fertility.

- Track Ovulation: Consider using ovulation predictor kits or tracking basal body temperature to better understand your ovulation patterns.

Understanding your fertility is a journey, and while the results may seem daunting, there are many avenues to explore for improving your chances of conception.

Similar Q&A

Can Women Self-Check for Infertility? Essential Tests Explained

Hello, I would like to ask if a woman can independently go to a hospital to check for infertility? What are the methods of examination? Thank you!


Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The evaluation of female infertility involves a series of examinations from the highest organ to the terminal organ: hypothalamus → pituitary gland → ovaries → uterus → cervix. (1) Cervical issues such as inflammation, poor mucus quality, or the presence of sperm antibodie...

[Read More] Can Women Self-Check for Infertility? Essential Tests Explained


Essential Fertility Tests for Women Trying to Conceive Again

Hello doctor, my eldest is one year and seven months old. We have been trying to conceive a second child for almost a year. I would like to ask what kind of tests we should undergo at this stage.


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the general definition of infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular sexual intercourse. In cases of infertility, both partners should undergo examinations at a gynecologist, which may include semen analysis, hysterosalpingography, ovulation testing...

[Read More] Essential Fertility Tests for Women Trying to Conceive Again


Essential Fertility Tests for Women with Regular Ovulation

If ovulation test strips indicate ovulation every month but pregnancy has not occurred, what tests should be conducted and when is the best time for these tests?


Dr. Chen Xuhui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The causes of infertility can be initially categorized into male infertility (which requires sperm analysis) and female infertility. Generally, if a woman is ovulating, another factor to consider is the patency of the fallopian tubes. A hysterosalpingography is typically more sui...

[Read More] Essential Fertility Tests for Women with Regular Ovulation


Understanding Infertility Testing: A Guide for Couples Seeking Answers

Do you offer infertility testing? Which department should men and women visit for infertility evaluations? Can men undergo infertility testing at any time, or are there specific times for women to get tested, such as after their menstrual period? Is it necessary to have multiple ...


Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Infertility clinics or obstetrics and gynecology clinics should first provide couples with infertility consultations before scheduling necessary examinations at an appropriate time. Female infertility issues are more complex; a past medical history, recent menstrual cycles, menst...

[Read More] Understanding Infertility Testing: A Guide for Couples Seeking Answers


Related FAQ

Infertility

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pregnancy Test

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Anovulatory Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Pelvic Exam

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Artificial Insemination

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Sperm

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Conception

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Iud

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menarche

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Abnormalities

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)