Infertility Evaluation
For couples who have been unsuccessfully trying to conceive for over a year, exploring the root cause by undergoing infertility evaluation is advisable before proceeding to treatment. A series of investigative medical tests and procedures will analyze the reproductive health, hormonal balance, anatomical structure, and functional pathways in both male and female partners.
Factors like age, genetics, lifestyle habits, medical history and more can have complex influences. Pinpointing the specific obstacles or abnormalities preventing conception allows fertility specialists to design a tailored treatment plan accordingly. Whether it involves advanced assisted reproductive techniques like IVF or a simpler medical approach, the suitable personalized strategy relies on comprehensive upfront diagnostic assessment. Infertility evaluation employs laboratory work, imaging scans, visualization procedures, and specialist consultations to uncover subfertility contributors.
Identifying the barrier to achieving pregnancy is the crucial first step in finally making parenthood dreams a reality.
Infertility Evaluation: Assessing the Causes
Infertility Testing in Women
Some key tests include:
- Blood tests – Evaluate hormones related to ovulation, egg quality, ovarian reserves, etc. Common panels test FSH, estradiol, and AMH levels.
- Hysterosalpingography – X-ray test that checks if fallopian tubes are open and the uterine cavity appears normal.
- Ovulation testing – BBT charts, ultrasound scans, and blood tests determine if/when ovulation occurs.
- Hysteroscopy – A camera on a thin device examines the uterine cavity to detect fibroids, polyps, scarring, etc.
- Laparoscopy – A camera inserted through incisions allows the doctor to view pelvic organs for abnormalities.
Genetic testing – Analyze blood for faulty genes linked to infertility.
Infertility Testing in Men
Common tests include:
- Semen analysis – Evaluates semen volume, sperm count, motility, and morphology to detect abnormalities.
- Hormone testing – Checks testosterone, LH, and FSH levels essential for sperm production.
- Genetic tests – Karyotyping and other tests check for chromosomal issues causing low sperm count or poor motility.
- Imaging tests – Scrotal ultrasound detects varicocele veins, cysts, testicular tumors, etc.
In some cases like unexplained infertility or failed IVF cycles, both partners may undergo more advanced diagnostic tests. The range of infertility investigations aims to pinpoint causes so appropriate assisted reproductive treatments can help couples achieve pregnancy.
For more information or to schedule a consultation regarding Infertility Evaluation with Dr. Vidhu Khandelwal at Khandelwal Clinic in Mumbai, please contact us today.