A woman undergoes several types of testing to diagnose infertility, often including blood tests, ultrasound scans, and sometimes more specialized procedures.
Blood Tests
- Blood tests check hormone levels such as progesterone (to confirm ovulation), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), prolactin, thyroid hormones, anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), and estradiol. These hormones help assess ovulation, ovarian reserve, and overall reproductive health. Prolactin and thyroid levels can identify conditions that may interfere with fertility.
Ultrasound Scan
- Transvaginal ultrasound examines the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes to detect structural problems like cysts, fibroids, endometriosis, or blockages. Special ultrasound techniques like hysterosalpingo-contrast-ultrasonography assess tube blockages by tracking fluid flow.
Imaging and X-ray Tests
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG) involves injecting dye into the uterus and fallopian tubes and taking X-rays to check if tubes are open or blocked and to assess uterine shape.
Additional Diagnostic Procedures
- Diagnostic laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgery used to inspect the pelvic organs directly, useful if infections, endometriosis, or scar tissue are suspected.
- Sonohysterogram uses saline infusion and ultrasound to evaluate the uterine cavity for abnormalities such as polyps or fibroids.
Physical Examination and Medical History
- The infertility workup usually starts with a detailed medical history, physical exam, and sometimes chlamydia testing because infections can impact fertility.
In summary, female infertility testing includes hormonal blood tests, various ultrasound examinations, X-ray imaging of the uterus and tubes, and potentially laparoscopy. The tests are chosen based on symptoms, history, and initial findings to identify factors preventing conception.
