Infertility Testing For Women

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TESTING FOR WOMEN

Female factor is the sole cause of infertility in approximately 40% of cases. There are several conditions that contribute to female factor infertility, including age, weight, smoking, uterine and pelvic abnormalities, ovulatory disorders, tubal disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and endometriosis. In addition to the causes listed above, a significant portion of female infertility remains unexplained in spite of the fertility evaluation.

The following testing is recommend as a part of the initial infertility evaluation.

DOCUMENTATION OF OVULATION

Approximately one third of women who are infertile have irregular or absent ovulation. For the most part however, when ovulation is absent menstrual cycles become irregular and unpredictable. A variety of tests are available to help determine whether or not you are ovulating. These include serum progesterone levels testing, ovulation prediction kits, serial ultrasounds, and rarely basal body temperature charting. Keep in mind however, that while these tests are helpful adjuncts in determining ovulation, a successful pregnancy is the only definitive evidence of ovulation.

TUBAL PATENCY

Abnormalities of the reproductive organs particularly the fallopian tubes can also limit the ability of the sperm to reach the egg. Tubal damage is usually the result of a pelvic infection or previous surgery. A hysterosalpingogram, (HSG or dye study), is the test most often performed to determine if there is blockage or damage to the fallopian tubes.

Other tests including laparoscopy or hysteroscopy may be performed to detect other conditions that may affect the tubes or other reproductive organs and make conception difficult.

OVARIAN RESERVE TESTING

Chronological age has a significant impact on a woman’s ability to conceive. This is largely because women are born with all the eggs they will ever produce during their reproductive life. With increasing age, there is a gradual decrease in fertility potential. Hormonal testing and ultrasound evaluations can help to quantify your reproductive age and fertility potential. Commonly performed tests include:

• Day 3 FSH and Estradiol level
• Day 3 ultrasound for antral follicle count
• Inhibin B
• Anti mullerian hormone