American Society for Reproductive Medicine

View all recommendations from this society

Released December 3, 2013

Don’t perform immunological testing as part of the routine infertility evaluation.

Diagnostic testing of infertility requires evaluation of factors involving ovulation, fallopian tube patency and spermatogenesis based upon clinical history. Although immunological factors may influence early embryo implantation, routine immunological testing of couples with infertility is expensive and does not predict pregnancy outcome.

These items are provided solely for informational purposes and are not intended as a substitute for consultation with a medical professional. Patients with any specific questions about the items on this list or their individual situation should consult their physician.

How The List Was Created

The Practice Committee of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) reviewed evidence from ASRM’s practice documents to identify possible topics along with suggestions for possible topics from the ASRM Board of Directors. By consensus, the Practice Committee narrowed the list to the top five most overused tests within specified parameters. Additional input was sought from the ASRM Board of Directors and incorporated. The final list was reviewed and approved by the ASRM Board of Directors. The ASRM Board of Directors and Practice Committee are comprised of representatives from every aspect of reproductive medicine through our five affiliated societies including the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, the Society for Male Reproduction and Urology and the Society of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists.

ASRM’s disclosure and conflict of interest policy can be found at www.asrm.org.

Sources

Cervera R, Balasch J. Bidirectional effects on autoimmunity and reproduction. Hum Reprod. 2008;14:359–66.

Carp HJA, Selmi C, Shoenfel Y. The autoimmune bases of infertility and pregnancy loss. J Autoimmun. 2012;38:J266–74.