Fertility Testing

What causes infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after having frequent, unprotected intercourse for an extended period. It can be caused by factors affecting either the male or female partner—or sometimes both. Because reproduction is a highly complex process, even minor disruptions in any step can prevent pregnancy. Identifying the root cause of infertility often requires thorough testing and evaluation.

Several factors can contribute to infertility, including:

Cervical or uterine issues

Conditions such as endometrial scarring, benign growths, or structural abnormalities can interfere with embryo implantation, increasing the risk of miscarriage or making conception more difficult.

Fallopian tube damage

Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes—often due to previous surgeries, infections, or diseases—can prevent sperm from reaching the egg, making fertilization impossible.

Ovulation disorders

Irregular ovulation or the complete absence of ovulation is often linked to hormonal imbalances, including conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders.

Risk factors

Certain lifestyle and health factors can impact fertility, including:

• Advanced maternal age
• moking or excessive alcohol consumption
• Unhealthy weight (either underweight or overweight)
• A history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Unexplained infertility

In some cases, no clear cause of infertility can be identified. However, even when the exact reason remains unknown, treatments and fertility interventions may still be effective.

What is fertility testing?

Couples who have been trying to conceive without success often begin to wonder whether they have fertility challenges. For women under 35, Dr. McNichol recommends fertility testing after one year of unsuccessful attempts at pregnancy. Women over 35 should schedule an evaluation after six months of trying.

You may want to schedule an appointment sooner if you experience:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Endometriosis
• Recurrent miscarriages
• Painful menstrual cycles
• A history of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
  

To assess fertility, Dr. McNichol uses a range of diagnostic tools, including:

• A comprehensive health history review and physical exam
• Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) X-rays to detect blockages in the fallopian tubes
• Blood tests and ultrasound imaging to evaluate ovulation and reproductive hormones
• An in-depth discussion of sexual history and any risk factors that could impact fertility

Can infertility be treated?

The good news is that infertility is highly treatable in many cases. Approximately 85-90% of couples struggling with infertility can successfully conceive with medical treatment. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment options may include:

• Medications to regulate ovulation and correct hormonal imbalances
• Minimally invasive surgical procedures to repair blockages, remove growths, or address structural abnormalities
• Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Dr. McNichol takes a compassionate and personalized approach, exploring every available option to help you achieve and maintain a healthy pregnancy. If you’re ready to take the next step in your fertility journey, schedule a consultation online or by phone.