Before starting IVF, both partners usually undergo a set of tests: for the woman, hormone tests such as AMH, FSH, LH, TSH and prolactin, a pelvic ultrasound with antral follicle count and an evaluation of the uterus and tubes; for the man, a semen analysis; and for both, blood group and infection screening for HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and syphilis. Further tests, such as hysteroscopy, genetic tests or sperm DNA tests, may be added depending on history and initial results. These tests help the fertility specialist understand the cause of infertility and plan a safe treatment protocol.

This article explains the common pre-IVF tests, why they are done and what to expect.

Why Are Tests Needed Before IVF?

IVF (in vitro fertilisation) is a process in which eggs are collected from the ovaries, fertilised with sperm in the laboratory and the resulting embryo is transferred to the uterus. Pre-IVF tests help the doctor:

• Estimate how the ovaries may respond to stimulation medicines
• Check the uterus for conditions that may affect implantation
• Assess sperm count, movement and shape
• Identify health conditions, such as thyroid or blood sugar problems, that should be managed first
• Screen for infections to protect the couple, the future baby and the laboratory

You can read about the overall journey in our article on the IVF process for first-time patients.

Tests for the Female Partner

Ovarian reserve tests

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): a blood test that gives an estimate of the egg reserve. It can usually be done on any day of the cycle.
• Antral follicle count (AFC): a transvaginal ultrasound, usually on day 2 or 3 of the period, to count small follicles in the ovaries.
• FSH, LH and estradiol: baseline hormone tests, typically on day 2 or 3.

These tests help plan the dose of stimulation medicines. They do not measure egg quality.

Other hormone and health tests

• TSH (thyroid): thyroid imbalance can affect ovulation and pregnancy
• Prolactin: high levels can disturb ovulation
• Blood sugar and HbA1c: to check for diabetes
• Complete blood count, blood group and Rh type
• Vitamin D and other tests as advised
• Rubella immunity in some cases

Uterus and tube evaluation

• Pelvic ultrasound: to look for fibroids, polyps, cysts, endometriosis-related cysts and the lining of the uterus
• HSG (hysterosalpingography) or sono-HSG: to check the shape of the uterine cavity and whether the tubes are open; blocked tubes filled with fluid (hydrosalpinx) may need treatment before IVF
• Hysteroscopy: a thin telescope is passed into the uterus to examine and, if needed, treat polyps, adhesions or a septum
• Laparoscopy: only in selected cases, such as suspected endometriosis or tube problems

Cervical screening

A Pap smear or other cervical screening may be advised if not done recently.

Tests for the Male Partner

Semen analysis

This is the main test. It measures volume, sperm count, motility (movement) and morphology (shape). A sample is usually collected after 2 to 5 days of abstinence. If results are abnormal, the test is often repeated.

Additional tests if needed

• Hormone tests such as FSH, LH, testosterone and prolactin
• Sperm DNA fragmentation testing in selected cases
• Scrotal ultrasound
• Genetic tests if the sperm count is very low or absent

Results guide whether conventional IVF or ICSI (injecting a single sperm into the egg) is planned. Learn more about male infertility treatment.

Tests for Both Partners

• Infection screening: HIV, hepatitis B (HBsAg), hepatitis C (HCV) and syphilis (VDRL)
• Blood group and Rh type
• Thalassaemia or haemoglobin screening, often advised in India, especially when there is a family history
• Genetic counselling or carrier screening when there is a family history of genetic disease or repeated pregnancy loss

Additional Tests in Special Situations

Depending on history, the doctor may suggest:

• Karyotyping (chromosome testing) for repeated miscarriages or failed cycles
• Tests for blood clotting conditions or autoimmune conditions in recurrent pregnancy loss
• Endometrial biopsy in selected cases
• Preimplantation genetic testing of embryos, discussed when there is a specific indication

How to Prepare for Pre-IVF Tests

• Bring all previous reports, scans and treatment records
• Note the first day of your last period so tests can be timed
• Ask whether fasting is needed for blood sugar tests
• For the semen test, follow the abstinence advice given by the clinic
• Share a full list of current medicines and supplements

Some couples find the testing phase stressful. It is normal to have questions, and counselling is available at many fertility centres.

What Happens After the Tests?

Once results are ready, the fertility specialist explains the findings, discusses whether any condition needs treatment first, and plans the IVF protocol, including medicines, monitoring scans and timing. Read more on our IVF treatment page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first test before IVF?

Most clinics begin with a consultation and a review of medical history, followed by basic tests for both partners: a pelvic ultrasound and hormone tests such as AMH for the woman, and a semen analysis for the man. The exact order is decided by the fertility specialist.

Is the AMH test necessary before IVF?

AMH is commonly used to estimate ovarian reserve and helps plan the medicine dose for ovarian stimulation. It does not measure egg quality and cannot by itself predict whether pregnancy will happen.

Does the male partner need tests before IVF?

Yes. A semen analysis is a standard test before IVF. Depending on findings, further tests such as repeat analysis, hormone tests or DNA fragmentation testing may be advised. Infection screening is also done for both partners.

Are tests done on a specific day of the period?

Some tests are timed with the cycle. Baseline hormone tests (such as FSH, LH and estradiol) and the antral follicle count are often done on day 2 or 3 of the period. AMH can usually be tested on any day. Your clinic will guide you.

How long does the IVF workup take?

Basic tests are often completed within one menstrual cycle, but this can vary depending on results and whether additional procedures, such as hysteroscopy, are needed.

Can previous test reports be used?

Recent reports may be accepted, but some tests, such as infection screening and hormone levels, need to be within a set time frame. The fertility specialist will decide which tests need to be repeated.

Speak With Our Fertility Team

If you are planning IVF and want to understand which tests apply to you, our team can guide you through the workup step by step. Dr. Jeevan Choudhari (M.B.B.S, MS Obst. & Gyn., Fellow in Infertility & IVF) is a consultant gynaecologist and infertility specialist at Inamdar IVF Center. Read more about the doctor.

• Address: 201, 2nd Floor, Inamdar Hospital, Vitthal Rao Shivarkar Road, near KPCT Mall, Wanowrie, Pune, Maharashtra 411040
• Phone: +91 96997 25140