Post Coital Test

The post coital test (PCT) examines the sperm after exposure to the cervical mucus. The test determines the capacity of sperm to survive and move within the female reproductive tract, specifically the cervix (opening of the uterus). The presence (under the microscope) of motile (moving) sperm in the cervical mucus is considered a normal post coital test. Absence of sperm, or the presence of a high percentage of non motile sperm, is considered abnormal. The PCT is conducted as part of the infertility evaluation to determine if “cervical factor infertility” is affecting conception.

Timing the PCT

Cervical mucus is normally receptive to sperm only during the periovulatory time of the cycle, so timing the PCT is very important.

LH-Timed

The correct pre-ovulatory time can be determined by monitoring the luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. Approximately 36 hours before ovulation, the pituitary gland secretes a burst of LH known as the LH “surge”. LH is ultimately excreted in the urine and provides an easy means to test for its presence and determine/predict ovulation. Call the office once the LH surge is detected.

hCG-Timed

hCG is an injectable medication used to trigger ovulation that is administered at a specific time of the day, usually 10:00 p.m. It is administered 36-38 hours prior to ovulation and normal intercourse takes place four hours before the appointment at our Dallas, Tx fertility clinic office..

The PCT is scheduled by calling the office at the time of the LH surge, or the day of hCG administration. An appointment will be made on the morning after the day of the LH surge, or two mornings after the hCG injection (typically given at 10:00 p.m.). Intercourse should occur 2 to 4 hours before the appointment and it is not necessary for the husband to accompany you.

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