The Essential Lab Tests for Fertility Assessment: A Guide by Your Integrative Fertility Nurse Practitioner
Fertility can be a complicated puzzle, and the right lab tests can provide invaluable pieces to help solve it. As an Integrative Fertility Nurse Practitioner specializing in unexplained infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, I've designed this guide to outline the lab tests that I highly recommend for a comprehensive fertility assessment.
Hormone Panel
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): This test measures the levels of FSH, a hormone essential for ovulation. Elevated or low FSH levels can indicate ovarian issues and help guide treatment options.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH): LH is vital for triggering ovulation. An imbalance may result in irregular cycles and fertility issues.
Estradiol: A form of estrogen, estradiol helps maintain pregnancy and menstrual cycles. Imbalanced levels could indicate conditions like PCOS, poor egg quality, toxin exposure, and more.
Progesterone: Low progesterone levels can be a reason for recurrent miscarriages and should be assessed for a comprehensive fertility overview.
Thyroid Panel
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Thyroid issues are often overlooked but can dramatically impact fertility. A TSH test can identify hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which could be impeding your fertility journey.
Free T4 and Free T3: These tests measure active thyroid hormones and can offer more insights into how your thyroid function may be affecting your fertility.
Markers of immune function: Antibodies and reverse T3 will help us understand if you are dealing with an auto-immune thyroid disease that deeply affects fertility.
Androgens
Testosterone and DHEA-S: Androgen levels can provide vital information, especially in the diagnosis of PCOS, which is a common fertility issue for women.
Nutrient Levels
Vitamin D: Low levels of Vitamin D have been linked to fertility issues. This test can indicate if supplementation is needed.
Folate and B12: Essential for fetal development, low levels of these nutrients can hinder pregnancy and should be optimized for fertility.
Inflammation Markers
C-Reactive Protein (CRP): Elevated CRP levels can indicate inflammation, which can be detrimental to fertility.
Homocysteine: High levels are linked to pregnancy complications and should be assessed to provide a full fertility picture.
Additional Functional Tests
Microbiome Analysis: Understanding your gut health can give insights into inflammation and nutrient absorption, which indirectly can affect fertility.
Insulin Resistance Testing: PCOS and other fertility issues can be exacerbated by insulin resistance, making this an essential test.
Optional Genetic Testing
MTHFR: Mutation in this gene can impact fertility and the body’s ability to process folic acid, which is critical for fetal development.
Carrier Screening: Both partners should consider this test to assess the risk of genetic conditions being passed on to offspring.
Tailored to You
What sets my practice apart is the personalization of care. Every individual’s fertility journey is unique, which means that while this list provides a thorough guideline, your specific lab tests may vary based on your particular case.
The Convenience of Virtual Consultations
My practice extends virtually across Arizona, Nevada, and Minnesota, and I offer health consulting nationwide, making it convenient for you to consult with me from the comfort of your home, receive your lab orders electronically, and find a local facility to get the tests done.
Beyond the Labs
My approach is comprehensive and rooted in integrative medicine. After your lab results are in, we’ll discuss them in detail during our virtual visit. Together, we'll craft a personalized fertility plan that not only addresses medical treatments but also lifestyle changes, nutritional adjustments, and emotional well-being.
Get the Full Guide
If this blog post piques your interest, remember that I have a comprehensive standard Fertility Labs List PDF that’s just an email sign-up away. You can bring this with you to your current PCP or specialist to be sure you’re getting the most in-depth lab analysis. Those tests are included in my six-month fertility program. Don’t miss out on this valuable resource designed to empower you on your fertility journey.
