What is TORCH test in infertility and why is it done?

There are numerous tests that are available to infertile couples that are recommended by some doctors, which might help them determine the cause of their infertility. One such test is the TORCH test.

In this blog, we will take a brief look at what this TORCH test is and whether it is really helpful in infertility.  So let’s begin !

• What is the TORCH test?

TORCH is an abbreviation of 4 infections that might impact the patient’s fertility.

TO- Toxoplasmosis

R- Rubella

C- Citomegalovirus

H- Herpes virus

TORCH test is performed to check the infection of these 4 viruses/parasites in the patient’s body. But in today’s world, there is no relation between TORCH infection and pregnancy.

As per the recent literature and research, this test has no value if you are trying to determine the cause of infertility. The reason is if you have some infection in your body, it should not prevent you from getting pregnant.

Satisfy Your Curiosity on this Topic by Reading Our Article

The result of the TORCH test shows you two values for each infection. For e.g., there will be two values of Toxoplasmosis, IgG and IgM. IgG indicates any past infection in your body by determining the antibodies present, which is a good sign.

If your IgG report is positive for all these infections, it indicates that your body is capable of fighting these infections.

Another value is IgM, which denotes active infection. If this value is positive, it’s important that you Consult your doctor and get it treated.

Once again, we would like to inform you that these infections do not have any impact on your fertility. If you are unable to conceive, there could be some other reason and not these infections. Even if the TORCH results are positive for active infection, it should impact your fertility.

In short, the TORCH test holds no value when it comes to infertility. But generally, it’s better to consult your doctor if your IgM value is positive.

This will help you get rid of the infection and any other complications arising due to this infection. And if IgG is positive, there is no infection, and you do not have to take any further action in that direction.

• Symptoms of High Prolactin Levels

The higher level of Prolactin might not have any signs or symptoms. But some patients might experience:

1.   Discharge in the Breast Milk
2. Irregular periods due to irregular ovulation
3. Inability to conceive
4. Headache. Blurred Vision (if there is a tumour in the pituitary gland)

• What do you think if your Prolactin levels are high?

If you are being diagnosed with high Prolactin levels, first of all, do not stress yourself. It’s important to identify the root cause of higher prolactin levels.

 It’s possible that you might have given the sample in a stressful environment. So, first of all, get yourself tested again with a Pool Prolactin Test.

In case you are taking any antacids or antidepressants, that too might spike your Prolactin levels. Even higher thyroid levels, too, might lead to higher Prolactin levels.

Managing these medications or thyroid levels can bring down your Prolactin levels.

But if your Prolactin levels are extremely high, it can be due to a tumour in your Pituitary gland. In such cases, you should consult your doctor. They may recommend surgery or other treatment alternatives.

Related Read : Tips for Successful IVF Pregnancy

We hope that this blog has offered you much-needed insight into TORCH infection. Remember, if someone is recommending you to get a TORCH test for your infertility, it’s better to seek an expert’s advice as TORCH infection has nothing to do with the infertility.

Feel free to reach out if you need any further information related to the TORCH test or infertility. Our experts will be more than happy to assist.

Follow Us On