Post-coital test
Quick answer: A post-coital test looks at cervical mucus taken a few hours after sex to see whether live, moving sperm are present. It was once common in infertility work-ups but is rarely used now; guidelines such as NICE do not recommend it routinely, as it does not improve the chance of pregnancy.
- SampleCervical mucus
- TakesAbout 5 to 10 minutes for the sample
- Before the testThe test is timed close to ovulation and a set number of hours after sex; your doctor will tell you when.
- In fertility careMost clinics now rely on semen analysis, ovulation tests and tube tests instead of this test.
How the test is done
- 1Your doctor times the test close to ovulation
- 2You have sex and come in a set number of hours later
- 3Using a speculum, the doctor takes a little cervical mucus with a thin tube or swab
- 4The mucus is checked under a microscope for live, moving sperm
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Results describe the number and movement of sperm seen; discuss what they mean with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Seeing moving sperm suggests sperm can survive in the cervical mucus. Few or no moving sperm can be seen with poor timing, thick mucus, sperm problems or antibodies, so the test is often hard to interpret.
Who usually has this test
Couples who have trouble conceiving, though most clinics now use other tests first.
Risks and aftercare
You may feel mild discomfort similar to a smear test, and light spotting is possible.
Names and options
Also called: PCT, Sims-Huhner test, cervical mucus test
Listed by the hospital as
- PCT (POST COITAL TEST)
Questions about this test
Is the post-coital test still recommended?
Guidelines such as NICE no longer advise it routinely, because it does not reliably predict pregnancy. Most clinics rely on semen analysis, ovulation checks and tube tests instead.
Should we avoid lubricants before the test?
Yes, many lubricants can harm sperm and affect the result. Ask your doctor what is safe to use.
When is the post-coital test done?
It is done just before ovulation, when mucus is thin and stretchy, usually a few hours after sex. Your doctor will tell you the exact timing.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.