Infertility is a condition that affects both men and women. In women, infertility is described as the inability of a female to get pregnant after trying to conceive for 12 months at a stretch despite constant attempts by her male partner to impregnate her. Even after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse, if a man is unable to make his female partner pregnant, it can be regarded as male infertility.

What are the Various Methods to Identify and Diagnose the Causes of Infertility?

Doctors use a combination of blood tests, medical history, semen analysis, physical exams, imaging tests (like ultrasounds and hysterosalpingograms), and laparoscopy or genetic testing in a few cases, to identify the causes of infertility accurately.

Blood Tests

With the help of blood tests, the levels of hormones such as thyroid hormones, progesterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) can be measured. It can help to make proper assessment of ovarian function, ovulation, and overall reproductive health. Blood tests can also help to look for the presence of some other condition that might have a negative impact on fertility, such as genetic abnormalities or infections.

Medical History

Your physician will review your medical history thoroughly, taking into consideration any medications, surgeries in the past, previous illnesses and your sexual history. It is vital to analyze all these.

Physical Exams

Doctors can conduct a physical examination of both partners. With this, they can easily detect any reproductive organ abnormalities or some other possible health problem.

Imaging Tests

Imaging tests are also essential for a proper diagnosis. With a Pelvic Ultrasound, physicians can visualize the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes properly. They can identify any abnormalities, such as blockages, cysts or fibroids.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an important X-ray procedure that makes use of a contrast dye. It can help to visualize the fallopian tubes and uterus, and aid in detecting any obstruction or other structural issues.

A minimally invasive surgical procedure known as laparoscopy may also be used in some cases. It can help doctors to visualize the pelvic organs directly. They can spot problems such as scarring or endometriosis.

Semen Analysis

This is an important exam that analyzes a semen sample. It can help evaluate sperm morphology (shape), motility (movement), and sperm count.

Other Tests

Ovarian Reserve Testing can be useful in properly assessing the quality and quantity of leftover eggs in the ovaries. This is an especially important test for women aged over 35 years.

Genetic Testing is also assistive in a few cases. It can help to detect the genetic factors that could be the reason for infertility.

Post-Coital Test (Sims-Huhner Test) is another vital examination. It makes a proper evaluation of the quality of cervical mucus and how much it allows smooth passage of sperm.

With these important methods, it can be easy to identify and diagnose the various possible causes of female and male infertility and come up with a proper treatment plan that properly addresses the underlying issue. It can be especially useful for men and women who are suffering from long-standing cases of infertility.