INITIAL INVESTIGATIONS
If a couple sought infertility treatment, they have to go under some initial investigations so that their fertility specialist can zero in the right treatment plan for them. A doctor requires knowing patients medical history before starting a fertility treatment. Current menstrual history, history of hypo or hyperthyroidism, PCOS, overweight, anorexia, weight loss, premature ovarian failure and ovarian dysgenesis are some of the conditions, which a doctor may need to know. A history of tube damage, pelvic inflammation or endometriosis should also be reported to the doctor. In male, history of testicular hyperthermia or use of certain drugs or any concurrent medical problem should be known to the doctor. Doctor may ask for some medical tests on the basis of medical history of the patients.
TESTS FOR WOMEN
For women, a number of tests are done to find out the cause of infertility.
Hormone Tests
A blood test is taken to find out if there is any hormonal imbalance. For a woman having regular menstrual cycle a Hormonal profile test is taken between Day 2-Day 6 of the cycle. Tests for following hormones are conducted
- FSH or Follicle Stimulating Hormone
- LH or Luteinizing Hormone
- Estrogen
- Progesterone
Tests for HIV, Hepatitis B and C are also performed. If a woman has irregular periods, she should undergo a test for gonadotrophins hormone, which stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs.
Ultrasound Scan
An ultrasound scan of ovaries, tubes, uterus and cervix are also taken to fine out any abnormalities. A hysterosalpingogram or hysterosalpingo-contrast-ultrasonography, which is more advance ultrasonography, may also be performed for further investigations.
Laparoscopy
Some women may also need a laparoscopy. A laparoscope or a thin tubular telescope is used to closely examine uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries.
Chlamydia Test
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection, which affects fertility. A pap smear is undertaken for chlamydia or any other sexually transmitted infections (STI).
TESTS FOR MEN
Doctor may examine testicles and penis during a physical examination to find out any deformities or abnormalities.
Following test are advised to men for checking out infertility problems.
Semen analysis
A semen analysis is undertaken to find out if there is problem of low sperm count, low sperm mobility or any morphological abnormality in sperm.
We at Nurture Clinic have our own pathology and scans, so patients need not run here and there for tests and they get accurate, authentic and reliable test at one place.