Sample Testing - Preconception Counseling

Sample testing gives the Kofinas Fertility Group specialists great insight into your fertility situation.

After your initial exam, the experts at Kofinas Fertility Group in New York will begin ruling out potential sources of your fertility problems. By examining different bodily fluids for any indicators of fertility interference, we can deliver targeted treatment in order to finally give you a successful pregnancy. Our specialists are well trained at examining the data collected from your samples, and they will review your results with you in a clear, accessible manner.

A post-coital test provides information about your reproductive cycle.

Performed one to two days before ovulation and 8 to 12 hours after intercourse, we use a post-coital test to check if sperm are present and moving normally. Generally your specialist will recommend a post-coital test if you meet the following criteria:

• Regular ovulation
• Healthy, unblocked fallopian tubes
• Normal sperm, or an unwillingness to undergo a sperm analysis

Your post-coital test is no more uncomfortable or invasive than a regular Pap smear. We will examine your cervical mucus sample and test it for numerous different properties.

If your test reveals problems, your cervical mucus could be hampering your ability to conceive. Your specialist will discuss your options with you and get you on the path toward starting a loving family.

Semen analysis is an easy way to investigate your fertility.

As male and female infertility tend to appear at equal rates, a semen analysis is a relatively simple test that we use to quickly eliminate or confirm possible sources of your fertility problems. You may either provide your semen sample at home or in the Kofinas Fertility Group’s patient rooms, and we will analyze the sample at our on-site lab.

We check the following properties during your semen analysis:

• Sperm count and concentration
• Swimming ability (motility)
• Volume of semen
• Appearance
• Fructose level
• pH
• Liquidity of semen
• Number of sperm per milliliter of semen in one ejaculate
• Total number of motile sperm in one ejaculate

If our analysis indicates any abnormalities, your skilled physician will work with you to create a personalized plan that addresses your needs.

All successful pregnancies start with a healthy uterus.

We may need to test the lining of your uterus, called the endometrium, for any abnormalities that could be preventing a successful pregnancy. We conduct this test by removing a small sample of the endometrium and examining it under a microscope. The results will let our doctors know if your uterus is capable of sustaining a pregnancy. Depending on your individual problem, we offer many solutions, and finding one that meets your goals is both our expertise and our passion.

Making sure your hormones are ideal for having a child.

A variety of hormone imbalances can contribute to infertility in both men and women. Through a simple blood test, we can check your hormone levels and evaluate the extent to which they’re affecting your fertility. Some of the hormones we look at include the following:

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) – In women, an FSH test is done to evaluate egg supply. In men, the test is used to check for testicular dysfunction as a cause for low sperm count.
• Estradiol – Estradiol is a form of estrogen that affects ovarian function and the quality of your eggs.
• Luteinizing hormone (LH) – This hormone is involved with ovarian hormone production, egg maturation and sperm production. We conduct an LH test to evaluate a woman’s egg supply and a man’s sperm count, or to monitor ovulation.
• Progesterone – Progesterone prompts the endometrium to thicken in preparation for sustaining a pregnancy. Problems with progesterone could mean there is a problem with ovulation or the woman’s uterine lining.
• Prolactin – In women, prolactin abnormalities can cause a range of issues, including infertility problems, lack of menstruation and nipple discharge. For men, a lack of sexual desire or difficulty achieving erection could indicate a problem with prolactin.
• Testosterone – Sexual function in both men and women is affected by testosterone. Men with low testosterone can have low sex drive, an inability to get an erection, or infertility. Women will often have irregular periods or a low sex drive.

Your doctor will use your symptoms to determine the necessity of these tests. During each exam, you will be treated with the utmost professionalism and sensitivity — we understand the emotional stress that can be caused by fertility problems, and we’re confident that we can help you start the life you want and leave your uncertainty behind.

For more information about our sample testing, or to schedule an appointment, call 718-736-2218. You can also schedule an appointment using our easy online form.