Going through infertility may be difficult for many individuals or couples. It may strain a relationship and may bring frustration or stress to those affected. Those who have been trying to get pregnant for over a year, or less for those older than 35, may begin to consider getting tested to help determine the possible cause of their infertility. There are several fertility testing options available and which test or exam is most appropriate will depend on varying factors that should be discussed with the fertility specialist. He or she will guide you in the right direction as you go about pinpointing the cause of the condition.
Those seeking a less invasive test such as a sperm count or a sperm motility test may find the cost to be about $50 to $200, while women undergoing blood tests to check hormone levels-which promote the maturation and release of their eggs-may spend around the same for the test.
As tests become more invasive, the cost of the test may begin to rise to the $200 to $1,000 price range. The tests may be even more in some cases and consulting the fertility specialist to go over the price of the test as well as whether it is a necessity is encouraged. An endometrial biopsy may be a more invasive test and involves taking a sample from the uterine lining. HSG is an x-ray that uses dye that is inserted into the uterus and fallopian tubes.
Invasive fertility testing may run as high as $5,000 or more. These tests may require the use of anesthesia and may include hysteroscopy or laparoscopy, which requires the use of a scope to examine the reproductive organs in question.
Most specialists will first recommend the least invasive tests before moving up to the more invasive options based on what the least invasive tests tell them. Both partners are often tested for infertility when the couple is having trouble getting pregnant, as the instances of male and female infertility are roughly the same.
Insurance may cover part of the cost of the tests, although this is not always the case and patients should first consult their insurance company to see what is covered. Out-of-pocket expenses may be in the $100 to $1,000 range depending on coverage and the test that is administered. Patients may be responsible for co-pays or a percentage of the cost of the diagnostic test.