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Our Web site contains information on the common infertility tests conducted in both partners. The causes of infertility are complex and often involve the female and her partner. Oftentimes, patients
come to our clinic with fertility test results from their previous
physician (s) and/or a commercial laboratory. They might
also have reports covering various procedures such as
a laparoscopy
or hysterosalpingogram.
Where possible, we try to use this fertility test information but sometimes
we must repeat certain critical evaluations.
A fertility test that is often repeated
is the semen
analysis. Our andrologists have years of advanced
training and always conduct the semen analyses using the
Kruger Strict Criteria. They are t rained to notice many
subtle abnormalities that can result in infertility.
There are many quantitative tests associated with the semen analysis including the number of sperm, the shape of the "sperm head", the ability to swim in a straight line, the consistency and quantity of the semen, and more. A sperm defect may be present even though these parameters are "normal". Those with extensive experience studying sperm are much better equipped to recognize subtle abnormalities. In some cases, insurance companies direct patients to use commercial laboratories based on the lowest price. Even if it is not covered by insurance, it is best to choose a reproductive laboratory to perform this critical evaluation.
In
general, if a woman under 35 years of age has been trying
to get pregnant for a year, she should consult a fertility specialist/reproductive endocrinologist.
Women aged
over thirty-five should seek care after 6 months
or sooner. When a specialist is consulted early it is
often possible to maximize insurance benefits and avoid
repeated fertility tests.
Another fertility test that might
be repeated is the laparoscopy.
This is dependent upon many factors including the results
of the previous laparoscopy(s). Our reproductive surgeons
/ fertility
specialists have extensive training in delicate
microsurgical procedures and can often treat conditions
causing infertility during the diagnostic laparoscopy.
This might include procedures such as removing endometriosis.
Fertility tests evaluate the separate
processes that must occur for pregnancy to result. The
most common causes of infertility in the female include
ovarian disease, tubal disease, endometriosis, uterine
disease, cervical disease, immune disorders and a category
known as unexplained infertility. "Unexplained
infertility" means that a specific cause of a couple's
infertility cannot be identified.
Fertility tests will be ordered
to assess ovarian function including the day 3 hormone
evaluation (FSH, LH, E2 and others). Elevated levels
of FSH on day 3 may indicate diminishing ovarian reserve
and infertility. Ovulation may also be assessed using
urinary test kits, progesterone hormone measurements,
ultrasound visualization and other means. These procedures are discussed in detail in "the female fertility test
section".
Fertility tests are also used to
access the tubes and uterus. The tubes must be open
and free of obstruction for the eggs to travel from
the ovaries to the uterus. Fertility tests are used to evaluate
the condition of the uterus and include the hysteroscope,
hysterosalpingogram, ultrasound and others. The uterus
must be regularly shaped and free of obstructions such
as fibroids and/or polyps. The laparoscopy is a very
valuable fertility test that allows the specialist to
directly visualize the reproductive organs. In many
cases, conditions such as endometriosis are treated
during the diagnostic laparoscopy.
Fertility tests, such as the post
coital test, assess the characteristics of the cervical
mucus. The cervical mucus supports the transport and
nourishment of sperm and must be free of antisperm antibodies
and be of the correct consistency.
It is important to remember that no fertility therapy, including Clomid, should be administered to the female until the semen analysis has been evaluated. 47% of all infertile couples will have a male infertility component.
Fertility tests are discussed in
detail at the links below.
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