Can anyone help with CD21 test?

[peekaboo]

Hi, I wondered if anyone could help. After TTC unsuccessfully for about 15 months, myself and my husband have recently been to the GP for help. They are starting with the routine tests, so I have already been for the first blood test and have to go again in a week for the second (CD21). When I was at the CD3 test, I asked the nurse what exactly the tests looked for and she said it was to check hormone levels.

Can anyone tell me exactly what they test for and what the tests tell them/ us? Is it whether I am ovulating or is it more than that? Any advice/ help would be very much appreciated as I don't know whether there is anything in particular I should be asking when I go for the results.

Many thanks in advance. x

 

[Misskitty]

The CD3 test looks at FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) levels. This should be pretty low as if you have a good egg supply your body only needs to release a small amount of FSH to trigger the ovulation process. If the levels are high this means that your body keeps having to release FSH in order to try to start the process.

The CD21 tests should be done 7 days after ovulation (so not actually CD21 for everyone). This tests for progesterone levels (which is what makes your temps rise after ovulation). Progesterone is necessary to maintain a pregnancy. I think if the levels are too low then it could mean that you haven't ovulated, or could mean that your body would be unable to maintain a pregnancy.

I hope that makes sense!

 

[peekaboo]

Thanks Misskitty, that makes things a bit clearer for me. x