What is a Postcoital Test and what do the results show?

What is a Postcoital Test and what do the results show?

A postcoital test is a test used to evaluate fertility.  It is sometimes referred to as the Sims-Hunner test, named after the doctors who first proposed it.  The test examines the interaction between the sperm and the cervical mucus.  The test is given shortly after the couple is asked to have intercourse.  During the test, the physician will examine the woman and record the presence of active sperm in the cervical mucus.

This test can indicate a variety of fertility problems.  It may indicate inactive sperm due to immune factors.  It may indicate ovulatory problems, or problems with the cervical mucus.  It may also show poor coital technique.

The PCT is scheduled close to ovulation when mucus is abundant, and the infertile couple is asked to have intercourse. Several hours later, the woman is examined by the physician and the presence of active sperm in the mucus is recorded. Normally, active sperm are expected to be found as they can survive for many hours.  If the sperm are moving forward, the mucus stretches at least 2 inches and the mucus dries in a fern like pattern, everything is considered normal.  A poor PCT may indicate sperm or mucus problems, including perhaps presence of immune factors that inactivate sperm. Also ovulatory problems and poor coital technique may affect the PCT.

Talk to your health professional about any concerns you have regarding the need for the test, its risks, how it will be done, or what the results will indicate. Complete the medical test information form to help you understand the importance of the test.

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