Sims-Huhner test (Postcoital test, Postcoital cervical mucus test, Cervical mucus sperm penetration test)
المؤلف:
Kathleen Deska Pagana, Timothy J. Pagana, Theresa Noel Pagana.
المصدر:
Mosbys diagnostic and laboratory test reference
الجزء والصفحة:
15th edition , p811-812
2025-09-01
404
Type of test Fluid analysis
Normal findings
Cervical mucus adequate for sperm transmission, survival, and penetration 6-20 active sperm per hpf
Test explanation and related physiology
The Sims-Huhner test consists of a postcoital examination of the cervical mucus to measure the ability of the sperm to penetrate the mucus and maintain motility. This test is used in the evaluation of infertile couples. It evaluates interaction between the sperm and the cervical mucus. It also measures the quality of the cervical mucus. This test can determine the effect of vaginal and cervical secretions on the activity of the sperm. It is per formed only after a previously performed semen analysis has been determined to be normal.
This test is performed during the middle of the ovulatory cycle because at this time, the secretions should be optimal for sperm penetration and survival. During ovulation, the quantity of cervical mucus is maximal, but the viscosity is minimal, thus facilitating sperm penetration. The endocervical mucus sample is examined for color, viscosity, and tenacity (spinnbarkeit). The fresh specimen is then spread on a clean glass slide and examined for the presence of sperm. Estimates of the total number of sperm and of the number of motile sperm per high-power field are reported. Normally 6 to 20 active sperm cells should be seen in each microscopic high-power field; if sperm are present but not active, the cervical environment is unsuitable (e.g., abnormal pH) for their survival.
After the specimen has dried on the glass slide, the mucus can be examined for ferning. This pattern is correlated with estro gen activity and is therefore present in all ovulatory women at midcycle. When the cervical mucus is checked again immediately before menstruation, no ferning is found because of progester one activity.
This test has limited diagnostic potential and poor predictive value. Its use has been associated with increased testing without improvement in pregnancy rates. Furthermore, cervical factor infertility is easily addressed by performing intrauterine inseminations.
Procedure and patient care
Before
* Explain the procedure to the patient.
* Inform the patient that basal body temperature recordings should be used to indicate ovulation.
* Tell the patient that no vaginal lubrication, douching, or bathing is permitted until after the vaginal cervical examination because these factors will alter the cervical mucus.
* Inform the patient that this study should be performed after 3 days of sexual abstinence.
* Instruct the patient to remain in bed for 10 to 15 minutes after coitus to ensure cervical exposure to the semen. After resting, the patient should report to her physician for exami nation of her cervical mucus within 2 hours after coitus.
During
• Note that with the patient in the lithotomy position, the cervix is exposed by an unlubricated speculum. The specimen is aspirated from the endocervix and delivered to the laboratory for analysis.
• Note that this procedure is performed by a physician in approximately 5 minutes.
* Tell the patient that the only discomfort associated with this study is insertion of the speculum.
After
* Tell the patient how and when she may obtain the test results.
Abnormal findings
- Infertility
- Suspected rape
الاكثر قراءة في التحليلات المرضية
اخر الاخبار
اخبار العتبة العباسية المقدسة
