Advanced Fertility Testing Before IUI or IVF: Everything You Need to Know About Male and Female Fertility Tests
Episode 52 | Her Fertility Podcast | Fertility Journey Series
Before your doctor can recommend IUI or IVF, there's a set of advanced fertility tests that build the picture of what's actually happening in your body. In this episode of the Fertility Journey Series, Jess Tims walks through every test you're likely to encounter — for both the male and female partner — explaining what each one measures, how it's done, and what to make of the results. Jess also shares her own emotional experience with the HSG exam, and why preparing yourself emotionally for these appointments matters just as much as preparing physically.
"You don't want to waste any more time just because you don't know something. Ask. Ask your practitioner, ask about your insurance coverage, ask what comes next. Knowledge is how you advocate for yourself." — Jess Tims
What You'll Learn in This Episode
Sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape)
DNA abnormalities in sperm that could affect embryo development
Male partner (optional add-on)
Reproductive hormone levels; progesterone tested separately in the luteal phase (around day 20)
Estimated ovarian reserve (egg count) via anti-Mullerian hormone level
Whether fallopian tubes are open or blocked (using dye and imaging)
Female partner (typically required before IUI/IVF)
A semen analysis is painless, non-invasive, and yields a significant amount of data. It can be ordered through your primary care physician, via a specialist referral, or done at home through services like Legacy (discount link in the show notes). The analysis measures:
DNA fragmentation analysis
An optional but valuable add-on to the standard semen analysis. This test examines the DNA makeup of the sperm for abnormalities that could affect embryo development — issues that wouldn't show up in a standard analysis. Jess recommends requesting this if it's accessible to you.
Advanced hormone panel (blood test)
This blood test measures your reproductive hormone levels. Many practitioners split it across two points in your cycle:
Coverage and protocols vary by practitioner and insurance provider. Ask your provider exactly which hormones they're testing and when, so you're not missing key data.
AMH test (anti-Müllerian hormone)
AMH is secreted by the follicles inside your ovaries. Your practitioner measures it via blood test to estimate your ovarian reserve — how many follicles you have remaining. Key things to understand about your AMH result:
If your AMH comes back low, the next episode of the Fertility Journey Series is a full deep-dive on diminished ovarian reserve — what it means, your options, and how to move forward.
HSG exam (hysterosalpingogram)
The HSG exam checks whether your fallopian tubes are open or blocked. It is typically a mandatory test before IUI or IVF. During the procedure:
Experiences with the HSG vary widely. For Jess, it was physically painful and emotionally significant — it was the first time she fully faced the reality of her infertility diagnosis. She went alone and wasn't prepared for the physical sensations or the emotional weight of the day.
"I didn't set myself up with the support I needed for that day. Everybody's experience is different — but I would encourage you to bring support with you if you can, because you never know what will come up."
A Note on Emotional Preparation
Advanced fertility tests are medical procedures, but they're also emotionally loaded moments on your journey. Going in informed — knowing what to expect physically, having someone with you, and giving yourself permission to feel what comes up — makes a meaningful difference. At Her Fertility, support options include a full resource library, one-on-one sessions, and a monthly online support circle.
🧬 Legacy at-home semen analysis (use code 'HERFERTILITY'): https://www.givelegacy.com/sperm-testing-kit?_clarm_vid=v_mo1v8s5xf03dqd
🎓 Free Masterclass — Come Back to Yourself: www.herfertility.support/free
💜 Fertility Frequency Collective: www.herfertility.support/collective
🎙️ Next Episode: Diminished Ovarian Reserve Explained: www.herfertility.support/podcast
📸 Follow Jess on social media: @herfertilitysupport
The Her Fertility podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.
