It’s difficult to tell whether you are actually infertile. Sometimes the only sign you may have is not being able to get pregnant or stay pregnant. However, the only way to know for sure is to begin infertility testing with a fertility expert. If you or your partner have been attempting to get pregnant for a year without success, then it may be time to speak with a doctor about infertility testing.
In this post, we’ll discuss what to expect as you and your partner are tested to determine if you have any infertility issues.
When to See a Specialist for Infertility Testing
If you and your partner have tried to conceive naturally but haven’t been able to, you’re probably wondering when you should begin infertility testing. For many couples, it can take up to a year to get pregnant.
However, most experts agree that if you’re still not pregnant after 12 months of regular sex without birth control, both partners should check in with a doctor to receive a comprehensive medical assessment. For those over 35 years of age, you should go in after six months.
Pregnancy can be more difficult to achieve if you or your partner struggle with certain health problems, such as:
- Irregular periods
- Thyroid problems
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Repeated miscarriages
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Ejaculation issues
- Difficulty getting an erection
- Trauma to the scrotum or testes
Be sure that both you and your partner speak with a fertility specialist together. Male factors account for about 50 percent of infertility issues, so it’s important to examine both of you to determine the cause.
Your Initial Infertility Examination
Your first appointment with your fertility specialist will involve providing them with a detailed medical history and a comprehensive physical exam. The doctor will need to know about any medical issues and will ask extensive questions about your lifestyle. Don’t be surprised to talk about topics like:
- Birth control
- Menstrual period irregularities
- Pregnancy history and their outcomes
- Sexual practices both current and past
- Current and past medications
- Surgical history
- Your work and living environment
- Tobacco, alcohol and drug use
- And more
Your doctor will also need to perform a thorough physical. You can expect them to examine your breasts and thyroid as well as perform a thorough pelvic exam along with a pap smear.
Possible Infertility Tests
After this initial consultation, your physician may run several infertility tests to attempt to figure out the root cause of your and your partner’s fertility problems. This process can take several months, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t get an immediate answer.
Female Fertility Testing
Fertility testing for women involves investigating the eggs, uterus and fallopian tubes. Your physician may use an ultrasound to check your uterus and ovaries as well as a blood test to check your hormone levels.
Sometimes, doctors recommend tracking your ovulation patterns. This involves taking your temperature, using home ovulation tests or even checking your cervical mucus.
If these initial tests and exam don’t provide any answers, your doctor may recommend other procedures, such as:
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): Using an X-ray, a dye is injected through your cervix which enables a radiologist to determine if there is a blockage or another problem with your uterus or fallopian tubes.
- Hysteroscopy: A hysteroscope takes images inside the uterus to see if there are any abnormalities, growths or scarring.
Other infertility tests may involve a minimally invasive surgical procedure to look inside your body. Using special tools, your doctor can check your fallopian tubes, ovaries and uterus for irregularities.
Male Fertility Testing
Fertility testing for men includes a physical exam and a semen analysis that checks for:
- Sperm count
- Sperm mobility
- Size, shape and quality of sperm
- Amount of seminal fluid
Additional blood tests may also be needed to determine if a hormone issue is making it difficult to cause a pregnancy.
Make an Appointment at Western Fertility Institute to Begin Infertility Testing
If you or your partner have tried to conceive a baby without success, then it’s time to make an appointment at Western Fertility Institute. Our compassionate team includes fertility specialists who understand the many factors that can affect fertility. They will know which tests to recommend for your particular situation.
We are here if you would like a helping hand to guide you as you explore your fertility options. Contact us today to find out more.