By this point, I have written so many newsletters and blog posts on the benefits of prepping for pregnancy BEFORE you start TTC. Today I want to give you more info on what labs I recommend getting done as a part of your pregnancy prep! These are also great to get done yearly or if you are struggling to conceive.
The right labs can help you uncover nutrient gaps, hormonal imbalances, and overall health issues that may impact your ability to conceive and sustain a healthy pregnancy.
Here’s a breakdown of the labs I recommend:
1. Foundational Labs
CBC (Complete Blood Count): Looks at red and white blood cells. Checks for anemia or any immunity issues.
CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel): Evaluates liver and kidney function, along with electrolyte balance, protein intake, and adrenal function
CRP (C-Reactive Protein): A marker of inflammation that can affect fertility and implantation.
2. Metabolic Health
Fasting Insulin: Detects insulin resistance, which can disrupt ovulation.
Lipid Panel: Assesses cholesterol and triglyceride levels, vital for hormone production.
3. Micronutrient Testing
Full Monty (Iron) Panel: Measuring iron and ferritin is not enough to truly assess how well your body is recycling and utilizing iron. I find this is a MAJOR piece of the puzzle for many of my fertility clients. A full monty panel includes:
Iron
Ferritin
Transferrin
TIBC
UIBC
Iron Saturation
Plasma Zinc
Serum Copper
Ceruloplasmin
Vitamin A
Vitamin D
Magnesium: Essential for egg development and hormone balance.
Folate: Crucial for DNA synthesis, egg quality, and preventing neural tube defects.
4. Thyroid Function
TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)
Free T3 and Free T4: Measures active and circulating thyroid hormones.
Thyroid Antibodies (TPO and TgAb): Rules out autoimmune thyroid issues like Hashimoto’s.
Reverse T3: Helps assess if stress or nutrient deficiencies are affecting your thyroid function.
5. Specialty Tests
These additional tests can uncover deeper issues.
HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis): A non-invasive way to assess mineral imbalances that affect fertility and overall health. I do offer just an HTMA package you can look into here.
Iodine Loading Test: Checks iodine levels, which are vital for thyroid function & fertility.
Gut Health Test (as needed): Identifies imbalances in gut bacteria or inflammation, which can affect hormone health.
DUTCH (Hormone Test) (as needed): Provides a detailed view of hormone metabolism and adrenal function. Great if you have major issues with your cycle.
Other Reproductive Markers: Such as Prolactin (to check for ovulation suppression) and DHEA (to evaluate androgen levels).
I know it seems like a lot, but these labs help identify potential obstacles before you start trying to conceive, giving you the opportunity to address them proactively. They also help guide nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements that will be specific to YOU.
Testing is just the first step. Understanding your results and taking action is where the magic happens.✨ If you’re ready to dive into your labs and create a plan for YOU, let’s work together!
