..where little means a lot


 
 
 
 
 

Testing for Infertility

The most common cause of infertility in women is blocked fallopian tubes (50% of the cases) followed by hormonal problems (one third of the cases). The most common cause for male infertility is some problem or the other with the sperm. After the routine questions on health, frequency of intercourse, medical history, menstrual cycle and the like, you and your partner may be referred to a specialist for special tests if nothing concrete has been found during the primary round of tests. To determine the underlying cause of infertility both the male and the female have to undergo a number of medical procedures and investigations to establish the cause(s).


The Doctor's Tests..

• A smear test

• Internal examination

• Urine and blood samples to check for STDs such as Chlamydia

• Hormone test to check if you are ovulating

• Examination of the partner's penis and testes

• Semen sample for lab testing


The Specialist Tests..

Semen Analysis:


A check on the sperm count in terms of volume, number of sperm; a close examination of the sperm formation, its activity level, its normality, its shape, a check on infection, level of white blood cells and the presence of antibodies that may be attacking the sperm

Blood Profile:

To measure levels of hormones viz oestrogen, LH, progesterone and prolactin; insufficient oestrogen or progesterone or excess testosterone may affect ovulation frequency or obstruct the proper formation of the uterus lining required for the fertilized egg

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG):

This method should be done in the early part of the menstrual cycle when there is minimum chance of pregnancy, to prevent harm to the fetus. It is an uncomfortable procedure but can detect about 70% of tubal blockages. It is an x-ray technique in which dye is injected into the vagina to pass through the uterus using a catheter. The fluid's progress up through the fallopian tubes will be monitored on an X-ray machine. If it does not, one or both of the tubes may be blocked. No anesthesia is required.

Laparoscopy:

A small incision will be made near the navel about 12mm long, then a tube like endoscope will be inserted. The light from the laparoscope will guide the surgeon on the overall condition of the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes. The aim of this minor operation is to detect ovarian cysts, endometriosis and blockages of the tubes. Dye is passed through the neck of the uterus into the tubes to detect blockages. Abnormal growths can also be viewed. Laparoscopy done in the second half of the menstrual cycle can also reveal if ovulation has taken place. It's a day procedure involving the use of general or local anesthetic.

Hysteroscopy:

A procedure similar to laparoscopy but without the cut, it uses the hysteroscope to check for adhesions and other problems. This special endoscope is passed through the neck of the uterus.

Post-coital Test:

A test to examine the cervical mucus within few hours of intercourse to check on sperm activity. It is a good test to check on male's fertility and female's ovulation.

Ultrasound Scan:

This scan will closely examine the ovaries, check on the development of the ovarian follicles and confirm ovulation

Human Zona penetration Test:

Also known as the Acrosome Reaction Test, this test checks to see if the sperm is able to penetrate the shell of the egg or zona. The acrosome found in the head of the sperm contains enzymes that break down the egg and allow fertilization to happen. This test primarily checks on the strength of the sperm. In cases of infertility, none of the sperm are strong enough to penetrate the zona or there just isn't enough sperm to allow penetration.

Biopsy:

A tiny sample of the endometrium will be removed with or without a local anesthetic in the second half of the menstrual cycle. The sample will be checked in the lab to see if it thickens enough after ovulation and for any other changes effected by the hormone progesterone.

Following these tests, if no medical problems are found or identified, psychotherapy may be recommended. Sometimes there is no apparent problem with the reproductive system of either partner that is causing the infertility. Unexplained infertility cases will require some assistance in conception in the form of treatments. The good news is about 30-40% of couples go on to conceive within 2 years after specialist investigations.



 
 
 
 
Disclaimer: Information contained on this Web site is intended solely to make available general summarized information to the public. It should not be substituted for medical advice. It is your responsibility to consult with your pediatrician and/or health care provider before acting on any advice on this web site. While OEM endeavors to provide up-to-date and accurate information, it is not liable for any advice whatsoever rendered nor is it liable for the completeness or timeliness of any information on this site.
 
Home | About Us | Preconception | Pregnancy | Parenting |

Free Newsletters
| Contact Us | Feedback | Sitemap
 
All Rights Reserved. © 2022 Welcome Baby Home | Privacy Policy | Terms of Use