Understanding Fertility Testing: A Step-by-Step Guide for Couples

Written By Lora Shahine, MD

Are you starting to think about fertility testing? Have you been trying to conceive and wondering which tests actually matter? Or are you overwhelmed by conflicting advice  and unsure where to begin? 

In this episode of Brave & Curious, Dr. Lora Shahine breaks down fertility testing with clarity, compassion, and evidence. Now you can move forward feeling informed instead of intimidated.

Dr. Shahine covers the basics of fertility testing including the essentials of a thorough health history. She also explains how menstrual cycles, ovulation patterns, pain, PCOS, endometriosis, lifestyle factors, and mental health all shape a fertility workup. 

This episode empowers couples with realistic expectations, evidence-based guidance, and the confidence to advocate for personalized fertility care, because understanding your options is the first step to feeling as ready as you can for what comes next.

In this episode you’ll hear:

  • [1:36] Key fertility tests for women: AMH, FSH, estradiol, ultrasound, and HSG

  • [3:42]] The full work up: lifestyle, medical history, menstrual cycles, and past pregnancies 

  • [7:54] Ovarian reserve and AMH explained

  • [13:19] Fertility tests for men:  semen analysis and hormone evaluation

  • [16:13] Preconception testing including genetic carrier screening

  • [21:48] When to see a fertility specialist and what to ask your doctor after testing

Dr. Shahine’s Weekly Newsletter on Fertility News and Recommendations

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Lora Shahine, MD

Dr. Lora Shahine, reproductive endocrinologist at Pacific NW Fertility and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Washington in Seattle, completed her residency in OBGYN at the University of California in San Francisco and fellowship in reproductive endocrinology at Stanford University. She is dedicated to educating and advocating for increased awareness of infertility, miscarriage, and the impact on environmental toxins on health through an active social media presence, teaching, clinical research, and authoring multiple blogs and books including best selling, ‘Not Broken: An Approachable Guide to Miscarriage and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss.’

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Age, Fertility, and Pregnancy: What’s Possible and What’s Safe