Tests
What You Need to Know About Fertility Testing
If a couple has been unable to achieve conception within a reasonable period of time, they might want to seek help in the form of fertility testing. Before going for testing, however, a couple should be aware that this venture requires a certain amount of commitment, patience, and endurance, as testing can extend over several months and can involve invasive procedures. The couple should therefore go to the initial consult with their physician or local fertility clinic armed with the appropriate questions to determine whether testing for fertility is indeed what they want to do. They should ask about the nature of the testing itself and the likelihood that any operations or uncomfortable procedures will be needed. They should inquire about the cost of testing and whether their expenses might be reimbursed through their specific medical insurance plan. Finally, they should ask for the statistics on the chances that conception will actually occur.
If the couple decides to proceed with testing, the number and nature of tests performed on each partner will be determined as data from completed tests comes in.
The first step in testng male fertility is a general physical examination and collection of information on medical history, illnesses or injuries, medications used, and sexual habits. The physician might ask for a semen specimen which is sent to a laboratory for analysis in terms of sperm quantity and quality and the possible presence of infection or blood. Hormonal blood tests might also be ordered.
Testing for female fertility is more complicated. The process begins with a thorough physical examination coupled with a gynecological examination and taking of a medical history. A painless cervical mucus test will be performed to determine how well sperm can penetrate the mucus and survive. An endometrial biopsy, where a sample of uterine tissue is examined to determine ovulation patterns and hormonal sufficiency, might be performed. Further testing of hormonal levels is accomplished through simple blood tests which look for infections at the same time. If these tests are all negative, then other procedures will be arranged. In a hysteroscopy, an instrument is used to examine the interior of the cervix and uterus for possible irregularities. A hysterosalpingography is a procedure wherein fluid is injected into the uterus and an X-ray is obtained to look for blockages primarily in the fallopian tubes. A laparoscopy involves making small abdominal incisions so that a viewing device can be inserted to visualize and examine all of the pelvic and reproductive organs. Local or general anesthesia is typically required for the more invasive procedures.