Ovarian Reserve Examination The blood tests and ultrasounds listed below can assist us in determining if you are ovulating and your overall reproductive potential. We can obtain a blood sample on the third day of the menstrual cycle to evaluate the hormone FSH, which is essential for follicle growth. A low level of FSH usually indicates that most eggs are still dormant (i.e., not mature). However, it does not necessarily mean that you cannot get pregnant; rather, it means that you have a lower probability of pregnancy compared with women with higher levels of FSH. Other tests include measuring the volume of fluid behind the uterus with sonography and checking white blood cell counts to identify infection or inflammation. A pelvic ultrasound can also reveal other problems with the female reproductive system such as polyps or fibroids (growths of muscle and fat cells, respectively). A physician performing these tests will first ask you about your history and health concerns before conducting the exam. You may be asked to lie on your back with your knees bent while the doctor presses gently against your abdomen to find the uterus and ovaries. The doctor will then check to see if you have any babies or uteruses. If you have never been pregnant, he or she will also measure the length of your cervix to determine how far along you are in your menstrual cycle. Your doctor may also perform other tests depending on your age and history.