Written by Abigail Jackson - January 16, 2023
What hormone tests should be performed for IVF?
The most important hormone tests to be conducted prior to IVF (in-vitro fertilization) are: follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2), progesterone, prolactin, and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Testing of these hormones is necessary to ensure that ovulation is taking place and the egg quality is good. Additionally, it will provide your doctor with data about your reproductive health and help them adjust treatments accordingly.
Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
FSH is one of the primary hormones responsible for producing eggs. It helps in monitoring the number of follicles that can mature during each cycle as well as the egg quality. High FSH levels may indicate poor egg quality which may reduce the chances of successful conception.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH helps in triggering ovulation. A surge in LH near the mid-cycle indicates that ovulation is occurring and eggs are released from the ovaries. Low levels of LH can mean a delayed or absent ovulation which will interfere with conception.
Estradiol (E2)
Estradiol (the major form of estrogen) production increases during puberty and prepares women for pregnancy by aiding in follicular growth and maturation of eggs. Insufficient or high estradiol levels can affect fertility adversely by preventing or delaying ovulation making conception difficult.
Progesterone
Progesterone is essential for maintaining pregnancy by providing nourishment to an embryo implanted on the uterine wall after conception has occurred. Low progesterone levels can lead to decreased uterine lining leading to implantation failure or early miscarriage.
Prolactin
Prolactin is secreted by pituitary glands in response to certain stimulants such as stress, exercise, etc., during different menstrual phases. Elevated prolactin levels can lead to inadequate egg release and hence disrupt normal ovulatory function leading to irregular cycles and infertility issues in women while low levels could result in poor endometrial development affecting successful implantation of a fertilized egg into uterus making conceiving difficult.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
The two main hormones produced by thyroids are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). An abnormal TSH level (<0.4 mIU/L or >2mIU/L )may be associated with menstrual irregularities which affects fertility adversely in women having difficulty conceiving due to age-related factors or those undergoing IVF treatment .
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