The Women's Center

Baseline hormone blood tests provide our fertility specialists with information to evaluate if your ovaries are still producing eggs). Abnormal results of these tests may indicate ovulation disorders. Additional tests are done to check your overall health. Infectious disease testing is also required for all couples per FDA recommendations.

Tests may include:

Vaginal, semen cultures & Pap smear

Vaginal cultures (laboratory tests) and a Pap smear will be obtained on the female partner and semen cultures on the male partner.

Semen analysis

A semen analysis is necessary for all males undergoing an infertility work-up. The sperm's quantity and motility are evaluated and to predict the fertilization capabilities of the sperm.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)

An HSG is an examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes performed between days five through ten of your cycle. Performed in the radiology department at Aurora BayCare Medical Center, the physician will insert a speculum into the vagina, then thread a small catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. The physician then injects radiographic contrast material (dye) into the uterine cavity and a series of x-ray pictures are taken. Some discomfort similar to menstrual cramps may be experienced. 

Sonohysterogram (SHG)

A SHG is an ultrasound examination performed in the clinic to evaluate the lining of the uterus for any polyps or fibroids performed between days five and ten of your cycle.  After inserting a speculum into the vagina, a thin catheter with a balloon is inserted into the opening of the cervix. A transvaginal ultrasound transducer will be inserted into the vagina to get a better look at the uterus. A small amount of warm saline is injected through the catheter allowing the physician to evaluate the uterine cavity.

If a patient has a history of recurrent miscarriages or is believed to have polycystic ovarian syndrome, there are additional blood tests that may be offered.