Description
Why It’s Done:
The Inhibin A test is performed for several reasons:
• Fertility testing: It is used to evaluate ovarian reserve and function, especially in women undergoing IVF (in vitro fertilization) or other fertility treatments.
• Ovarian cancer screening: Elevated levels of inhibin A can be associated with granulosa cell tumors, a type of ovarian cancer.
• Pregnancy screening: In the second trimester of pregnancy, inhibin A is measured as part of the Quadruple Screen to assess the risk of chromosomal abnormalities (e.g., Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome).
• Menstrual cycle evaluation: Abnormal inhibin A levels can indicate ovulatory disorders or ovarian dysfunction.
Preparation:
• Sample required: Blood sample (serum).
• No fasting is typically required for this test.
• Timing: If the test is for pregnancy screening, it is usually done between 15–20 weeks of gestation.
• For fertility or ovarian reserve testing, the test is often done during the early follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, typically on days 2–5.


