Why are Fertility Tests Done on Day 2/3 of your Cycle?

Fertility tests and their timing: a breakdown

Fertility tests are an essential part of assessing reproductive health, particularly for those trying to conceive.

However, if you were recommended a test recently, you might have also been suggested a specific duration for it.

One specific aspect of these tests is the timing—they are often performed on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle.

But have you ever wondered why?

In this blog, we will explore why this timing is crucial, what the tests measure, and how the results can help guide your fertility journey.

Understanding the Menstrual Cycle

The menstrual cycle is a complex process involving hormonal changes that prepare a woman's body for pregnancy.

It typically lasts between 28 to 35 days and is divided into several phases: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.

Phases of the Menstrual Cycle:

1. Menstrual Phase: Day 1 marks the beginning of menstruation, where the uterine lining (built up during the previous cycle) sheds.

2. Follicular Phase: Begins on the first day of menstruation and continues until ovulation. During this phase, follicles in the ovaries mature, stimulated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

3. Ovulation: Around the mid-cycle, typically on day 14, a mature egg is released from the ovary.

4. Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If fertilization does not occur, the cycle repeats.

Why are Fertility tests done on Day 2/3?

Here’s a breakdown of why that doctor’s note might mention a specific date for your fertility tests:

1. Tests baseline hormone levels

Testing on the second or third day of the menstrual cycle provides a baseline measure of reproductive hormones without the influence of hormonal fluctuations that occur later in the cycle. This timing ensures more accurate and consistent results.

2. Key hormones measured

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): High levels can indicate diminished ovarian reserve, while normal levels suggest healthy ovarian function.

• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Helps in assessing the pituitary gland's function and can indicate potential ovulation issues.

• Estradiol (E2): Reflects the function of the ovaries and helps interpret FSH levels.

• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH): Though not cycle-dependent, it is often measured to assess ovarian reserve.

3. Helps assess ovarian reserve

Day 2/3 testing helps evaluate ovarian reserve, which is crucial for understanding fertility potential.

Day 2/3 is when the follicles for the new cycle are recruited and are at a size of 2-4mm, and this number can help us understand the ovarian reserve. Going forth, the follicles reach a stage of maturity, growing beyond 10mm. As we age, the number of these 2-4mm follicles decrease, and the number of larger follicles remain constant. Hence, assessing at this stage is a more accurate measurement of the ovarian reserve.

Within these, FSH and estradiol levels are particularly important in this assessment:

• FSH Levels: High levels on day 2/3 can suggest a lower ovarian reserve, which may impact fertility.

• Estradiol Levels: Elevated estradiol levels can artificially suppress FSH levels, providing insight into ovarian function.

How do I Interpret the results?

Here’s a guide on how to interpret your fertility test results:

1. Normal ranges

Understanding what constitutes "normal" hormone levels is essential. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results within the context of your overall health and fertility goals.

2. High FSH and low AMH

These results may indicate diminished ovarian reserve, suggesting that the ovaries have fewer eggs available for fertilisation.

3. Hormone imbalances

Abnormal levels of LH and estradiol can indicate various reproductive health issues, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other ovulatory disorders.

How do results affect your treatment plan?

The results can help your healthcare provider plan out your treatment cycle or understand your reproductive health better. Here’s how:

1. Personalised treatment plans

The results of your day 2/3 fertility test help your healthcare provider tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. This could involve lifestyle changes, medication, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).

2. Monitoring and adjustments

Regular monitoring allows your healthcare provider to adjust treatment protocols as needed, ensuring the best possible outcomes on your fertility journey.

Where Arva comes in

Pinpointing the early follicular phase, specifically days 2 or 3 of your menstrual cycle, is a critical aspect of fertility testing.

This timeframe provides valuable insights into your ovarian reserve and hormone levels, offering a clearer picture of your reproductive potential.

We at Arva simplify this process by offering convenient at-home fertility testing tailored for this specific window.

Additionally, our network of non judgemental gynaecologists adds another layer of support, ensuring you receive expert guidance throughout the process.

We aim to make fertility resources more affordable, to make fertility testing more accessible pan India.

We’re fixing the healthcare system for women in India. And you’re included too ❤️