What does an AMH test tell you about fertility?

This test measures AMH levels in the blood and indicates ovarian reserve — the number of remaining eggs in the ovaries. Higher AMH levels generally indicate higher ovarian reserve, whereas lower levels may indicate diminished fertility potential. This test is useful for assessing fertility, planning for pregnancy, and understanding the effects of age on fertility.

How do doctors assess ovarian reserve?

Doctors assess ovarian reserve primarily through hormone testing and ultrasound imaging. Blood tests typically measure hormone levels, such as FSH, Estradiol, and AMH, on specific days of the menstrual cycle. An ultrasound can evaluate the antral follicle count, which indicates the number of potential eggs available. Together, these assessments help determine reproductive potential, guiding decisions related to fertility treatments or interventions if necessary.

What hormone levels are measured during fertility testing?

During fertility testing, doctors measure several hormone levels to assess reproductive health. Key hormones include LH and FSH, which regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Estrogen and progesterone levels are also checked to evaluate ovarian function and the uterine lining. Monitoring these hormones helps identify potential causes of infertility and guide treatment options.

Will I need an ultrasound as part of my fertility testing?

An ultrasound may be a crucial part of your fertility testing process. This imaging technique helps doctors visualize the uterus and ovaries, allowing them to detect abnormalities, assess follicle development, and evaluate the health of the reproductive organs. It can also help identify issues such as uterine fibroids or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that may affect fertility. Your healthcare provider will determine if an ultrasound is necessary based on your individual situation and reproductive health history.

When should I start fertility testing if I’m over 35?

If you're over 35 and trying to conceive, it's recommended to start fertility testing after six months of trying without success. Fertility naturally declines with age, so consulting with a fertility specialist can provide personalized guidance based on your health and circumstances. This ensures you receive appropriate guidance and support throughout the process.

Does insurance cover female fertility testing?

Insurance coverage for female fertility testing varies by policy and insurer. Some plans may cover basic fertility assessments, including blood tests and ultrasounds, but comprehensive evaluations or treatments may have out-of-pocket costs. Our financial team will help you understand your specific benefits, so you know exactly what to expect before proceeding with testing.

Fertility Testing for Women | Tennessee Fertility Institute

How Female Infertility Is Diagnosed

Fertility testing is often the first step for women who are trying to conceive or looking for a clearer understanding of their fertility. Because female fertility is influenced by factors such as age, hormone levels, ovulation, and overall health, the evaluation process is tailored to each person’s situation. The goal is to gather clear, actionable information to guide next steps, whether that means reassurance, further monitoring, or a personalized treatment plan.

What are the signs of female infertility, and when should I get tested?

Infertility can be a complex and often silent struggle for many women. While some may experience noticeable symptoms such as irregular periods, extremely painful periods, or a history of miscarriages, many causes of infertility can go unnoticed and show no obvious signs.

Infertility is generally defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of trying, or after 6 months for women over the age of 35. However, any woman can undergo fertility testing, especially if she has risk factors or concerns about infertility. Taking this proactive approach can provide valuable insights and enable timely management of potential issues.

Possible Causes of Female Infertility

Female infertility can arise from a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, ovulatory disorders, abnormalities in the reproductive system, or issues related to age. Testing can help identify specific conditions, such as:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Uterine fibroids or polyps
Blocked fallopian tubes (tubal factor infertility)
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)
Hormonal imbalances
Low ovarian reserve
Irregular or absent ovulation
Pelvic adhesions or scarring
Genetic or chromosomal conditions
Recurrent pregnancy loss
Unexplained infertility

Treatment options depend on the underlying cause, identified through various fertility evaluations and diagnostic procedures.

What is AMH testing, and why does it matter?

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) testing is an important tool for assessing a woman's ovarian reserve, the number of viable eggs remaining in her ovaries. AMH is produced by the granulosa cells in ovarian follicles, and measuring its levels can provide valuable insights into a woman's fertility potential.

Higher AMH levels may indicate a greater number of eggs and possibly a higher chance of successful conception. Conversely, low AMH levels may signal diminished ovarian reserve, which can be a concern for fertility.

AMH levels typically decline with age, making this test a valuable indicator for women who are planning to conceive or who may require assistance with fertility. Understanding AMH testing and results can help both individuals and healthcare providers make informed decisions about family planning and fertility treatments.

What other female fertility testing is part of an overall evaluation?

Infertility evaluations consist of various assessments, including lab tests (such as measuring hormone levels in the blood), imaging studies, and less invasive diagnostic techniques to assess reproductive organ function. These may include:

Medical History and Physical Examination

The fertility care team collects information about your menstrual cycle regularity, sexual history, and any previous pregnancies or miscarriages, along with your medical history. A comprehensive physical examination is often conducted to assess overall health.

A detailed history can reveal patterns, risk factors, and underlying health concerns that may affect fertility.

Ovulation Assessment

The easiest way to evaluate ovulation is to track your menstrual cycle and look for signs of ovulation. These can include a slight rise in basal body temperature or results from ovulation prediction kits. Generally, if a woman experiences regular menstrual cycles, she's likely ovulating. In some cases, a fertility specialist may conduct additional tests, such as measuring progesterone levels or performing ultrasound monitoring.

Hormonal Testing

Several hormones influence reproductive function, so assessing hormone levels through blood tests can provide valuable insights into fertility issues. There are various tests you may undergo, including those that measure hormones influencing conception, such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), prolactin, and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH).

Ovarian Reserve Testing

This process assesses the number of eggs present in your ovaries. Tests such as the antral follicle count (AFC) are performed by ultrasound, along with assessments of AMH and hormone levels. Evaluating ovarian reserve plays a critical role in guiding decisions about treatment timing, available options, and strategies for preserving fertility.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

HSG is a specialized X-ray procedure used to evaluate the health of the fallopian tubes and the uterine cavity. During the test, a contrast dye is injected through the cervix into the uterus, allowing the doctor to check for blockages in the fallopian tubes or abnormalities in the uterine lining. HSG can provide valuable insights into fertility issues, helping to identify potential causes of infertility related to tubal blockage or uterine conditions.

Transvaginal Ultrasound Testing

Transvaginal ultrasounds are an essential diagnostic tool for assessing the uterus, ovaries, and follicle development. This procedure involves inserting a small ultrasound probe into the vagina, which allows doctors to capture highly detailed images of the reproductive organs.

With this method, healthcare providers can evaluate the structure and condition of the uterus, identify ovarian cysts, detect abnormalities, and monitor follicle growth during fertility treatments. The procedure is generally safe, minimally invasive, and provides valuable information for managing women’s fertility.

Laparoscopy

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure utilized to diagnose underlying causes of infertility, including conditions like endometriosis and pelvic adhesions. By using small incisions and a camera, doctors can examine the reproductive organs closely, allowing for accurate diagnosis and potential treatment options to enhance the chances of conception. This approach is less invasive than traditional surgery, often resulting in shorter recovery times and reduced discomfort for patients.

Genetic Testing

Infertility can sometimes be caused by genetic factors or chromosomal issues, which can be identified through genetic testing. This testing is particularly valuable for individuals who have experienced multiple miscarriages. Genetic assessments may include carrier screening or chromosomal analysis, depending on the situation.

Saline Infusion Sonogram (SIS)

A SIS test can detect uterine abnormalities, such as polyps, fibroids, or scar tissue, which may affect fertility. During the procedure, a catheter is gently inserted into the cervix to assess the inside of the uterus for any irregularities. Saline solution is injected into the uterine cavity while a transvaginal ultrasound is performed, allowing real-time imaging of the uterus. Additionally, your doctor may use the SIS test to evaluate the patency of your fallopian tubes.

How much does female fertility testing cost?

The cost of female fertility testing varies based on the diagnostic tests recommended by your doctor. While basic lab work and imaging may be covered by insurance, more advanced diagnostic procedures could require out-of-pocket expenses.

At Tennessee Fertility Institute, our financial team will review your specific insurance plan and inform you about what to expect before testing begins. We encourage patients to visit our Fertility Treatment Costs, Financing, and Insurance Coverage pages for more information.

Female Fertility Testing FAQ

This test measures AMH levels in the blood and indicates ovarian reserve — the number of remaining eggs in the ovaries. Higher AMH levels generally indicate higher ovarian reserve, whereas lower levels may indicate diminished fertility potential. This test is useful for assessing fertility, planning for pregnancy, and understanding the effects of age on fertility.
Doctors assess ovarian reserve primarily through hormone testing and ultrasound imaging. Blood tests typically measure hormone levels, such as FSH, Estradiol, and AMH, on specific days of the menstrual cycle. An ultrasound can evaluate the antral follicle count, which indicates the number of potential eggs available. Together, these assessments help determine reproductive potential, guiding decisions related to fertility treatments or interventions if necessary.
During fertility testing, doctors measure several hormone levels to assess reproductive health. Key hormones include LH and FSH, which regulate the menstrual cycle and ovulation. Estrogen and progesterone levels are also checked to evaluate ovarian function and the uterine lining. Monitoring these hormones helps identify potential causes of infertility and guide treatment options.
An ultrasound may be a crucial part of your fertility testing process. This imaging technique helps doctors visualize the uterus and ovaries, allowing them to detect abnormalities, assess follicle development, and evaluate the health of the reproductive organs. It can also help identify issues such as uterine fibroids or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that may affect fertility. Your healthcare provider will determine if an ultrasound is necessary based on your individual situation and reproductive health history.
If you're over 35 and trying to conceive, it's recommended to start fertility testing after six months of trying without success. Fertility naturally declines with age, so consulting with a fertility specialist can provide personalized guidance based on your health and circumstances. This ensures you receive appropriate guidance and support throughout the process.
Insurance coverage for female fertility testing varies by policy and insurer. Some plans may cover basic fertility assessments, including blood tests and ultrasounds, but comprehensive evaluations or treatments may have out-of-pocket costs. Our financial team will help you understand your specific benefits, so you know exactly what to expect before proceeding with testing.

Comprehensive Female Fertility Testing in Tennessee

If you're ready to learn more about your fertility in a compassionate and supportive environment, Tennessee Fertility Institute is here to help. Our experienced team provides comprehensive fertility testing for individuals and couples throughout Tennessee.

With convenient locations in Nashville and Franklin, we make it easy to access world-class reproductive care close to home. Schedule your fertility evaluation today to move forward with clarity, confidence, and a personalized plan designed just for you.