WVU :: School of Medicine :: WV Center for Reproductive Medicine

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology -
WVU Center for Reproductive Medicine

Instructions for Tests

Protocols

Tests

Endometrial Biopsy: The ideal time to perform the biopsy has been debated . We are of the opinion that the biopsy should be performed 10-12 days after ovulation or right before the next expected menses.

This procedure is performed in the office. Since the procedure causes cramping, you might want to take 400-600 mg Ibuprofen prior to arriving at the office
A pregnancy test is obtained prior to the procedure
A speculum is placed, the cervix cleaned with an antiseptic, and a plastic catheter is passed into the uterine cavity. Suction is applied and a sample of tissue is removed
There are no restrictions on your activities for the remainder of the day

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): The test is usually scheduled right after your menses has stopped and before ovulation occurs. Therefore, call 598-3100 when your period starts so that the test can be scheduled. This test is performed in the Radiology Department, which is on the third floor of Ruby Memorial Hospital. . Since the procedure causes cramping, you might want to take 400-600 mg Ibuprofen prior to arriving at the hospital.

Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled test for registration. From the 3rd floor guest elevators, turn right and the registration desk will be on the right side of a large hallway that goes off to your left.
After registration, you will be taken to a changing area which is on the left-hand side of the previously mentioned large hallway.
After you have changed into a gown, you will be taken back to the X-ray room.
A speculum will be placed and the cervix cleansed with an antiseptic solution. An instrument will be attached to your cervix and a small catheter placed into the cervix.
A special dye will then be injected and continuous X-rays will be performed to observe the dye as it fills the uterus and goes into the tubes.
It is recommended that you bring someone with you to the hospital to drive you home. We do not recommend that you return to work.

Ovarian Reserve Testing: This testing usually consists of ultrasound and hormonal testing

Day 3: A baseline ultrasound might be obtained. Blood levels of Follicle Stimulating Hormone and the estrogen, Estradiol, are obtained
Clomiphene citrate challenge test: Clomiphene citrate, 100 mg, is taken day 5-9 of the cycle
Return on day 10 for ultrasound and a serum Follicle Stimulating Hormone level
Different labs and clinics may use different methods to measure these hormones. Therefore the levels that are considered normal are specific for the clinic that you are attending

Post Coital Test: The ideal time to perform the test is immediately prior to ovulation.

Have intercourse the evening prior to your scheduled test. Do not use lubricants or douche.
You will be scheduled to come into the clinic the following morning.
A speculum will be placed. A syringe attached to a soft plastic catheter will be used to remove mucus from your cervix.
The mucus will then be examined under a microscope.
A vaginal ultrasound may be performed at the same time to make sure that the test was cheduled at the appropriate time.
There are no restrictions on your activities for the remainder of the day

Semen Analysis: The test will be performed in the Andrology Lab at the Fertility Center.

The specimen will be collected by masturbation at home or in a special room within the clinic (preferred)
Prior to collection of the semen sample, observe at least 2 days but not more than 5 days of abstinence (i.e. no ejaculations).
Please wash hands thoroughly before collection.
Do not use lubricants or condoms because they may contain substances that will kill or immobilize sperm
Collect the semen in a sterile specimen cup by masturbation. Sterile cups are available at the Reproductive Endocrine Lab or from your doctor. Collect all of the ejaculate. If some or all of the semen is lost during collection or if you are unable to ejaculate, we will reschedule the test
If you are collecting the specimen at home, take the specimen to the lab as soon as possible, but no later than one hour after collection. The specimen should be kept at body temperature during transport. This can be achieved by keeping the container next to your body in your clothing. If possible, the patient should deliver the sample himself to validate his identity and to sign a consent form. Write your name on the sample cup and bring your specimen along with your doctor’s orders to the Reproductive Endocrine Lab at the Center for Reproductive Medicine.
You do not need an appointment for a semen analysis. You may collect or deliver your sample during our working hours, which are: Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-noon and 1:30-3:00 p.m. except for holidays.
All other procedures including sperm freezing, fructose, viability, and antibody testing require an appointment 24 hours in advance.

Sonohysterography: This test is performed in the Center for Reproductive Medicine. The test is usually scheduled right after your menses has stopped and before ovulation occurs. Therefore, Call 598-3100 when your period starts so that the test can be scheduled.

The procedure is performed in the ultrasound room.
A baseline vaginal ultrasound is performed
A speculum is placed and the vagina and cervix cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
A small catheter is inserted into the uterine cavity and a small balloon is inflated to keep the catheter in place.
The speculum is removed and the vaginal ultrasound is again inserted
Sterile fluid is injected into the uterus while simultaneously performing ultrasound.
After satisfactory images are obtained, the procedure is ended
Most women experience little or no discomfort with this examination, but you can choose to use 400-600 mg Ibuprofen one hour prior to the procedure.
There are no restrictions on your activities for the remainder of the day