A new saliva test being rolled out by Boston IVF could save women undergoing infertility treatments from the pain and inconvenience of repeated blood tests to measure hormone levels.
The blood tests measure a form of estrogen called estradiol - also found in saliva - allowing women to adjust the dose of their hormone injections, according to Boston IVF medical director Dr. Michael Alper.
The saliva test costs $150, the same as the blood test, said Alper, and should be covered by insurance in states like Massachusetts that mandate coverage for IVF.
Unfortunately, though, the saliva test can’t be done at home. Women still need to drop off the sample at their doctor’s office every day or two and get results later in the day.
