|
The basic infertility evaluation, sometimes called a work-up, is the testing
period prior to treatment to determine diagnosis. For men, it usually consist of
a brief physical evaluation, interview about the past 3 months, and a semen
analysis. The semen analysis will provide results on volume, sperm count and
overall sperm health. It should be stated emphatically that there is no
correlation between male infertility, low sperm count and impotence. They
are all different issues, but are often emotionally linked by unfounded
social discussions. Determination of male fertility is usually the first,
easiest and smartest starting point for basic infertility evaluations.
For women, the basic infertility evaluation is much more involved. The
entire evaluation is designed to answer 3 of the 4 most basic questions:
1. Is there an egg?
2. Is there sperm?
3. Is anything physically preventing the sperm and egg from getting together?
4. When together, does the sperm fertilize the egg?
The only true test for question number 4 is IVF (in vitro fertilization).
Tests Associated with Each Question
1. Is there an egg?
Temperature charts, LH kits and sometimes a progesterone test can be used to
determine if there is ovulation. Additionally, many physicians like to use an
ultrasound to see if a follicle has actually ruptured, presumably releasing an
egg. There are other tests, like checking prolactin and thyroid stimulating
hormones levels, to rule out more rare circumstances which are easily treatable.
2. Is there sperm?
A semen analysis is needed.
3. Is anything physically preventing the sperm and egg from getting together?
Sometimes cervical mucus can create a hostile environment for sperm survival. This
is checked with a cervical mucus test and/or a post-coital test. Ultrasound is done to
see if there is any obvious interference or Endometriosis. Additionally, a
hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is done to see if there is any blockage in the fallopian
tubes or uterus. This is essentially an X-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes
after the injection of a dye through the cervix.
4. When together, does the sperm fertilize the egg?
IVF is the only true test for fertilization.
Our Mission Statement: “...Exceeding patient expectations...”
|