Getting pregnant can take time. Unfortunately for many couples, the months upon months of trying to conceive can be taxing, frustrating, and disheartening, just to name a few. The good news is that for fertile couples, most have a strong chance of getting pregnant within a year’s time. However, if you have been trying to conceive for over a year with no luck, it may be time to undergo fertility testing.
Undergoing fertility testing is a great first step in helping you achieve pregnancy. Although you may be dreading the process, or frightened to learn the results, take a deep breath. Fertility testing is nothing to be scared of– if anything it is something to look forward to. It may uncover an underlying reason for your unsuccessful attempts at conceiving, and with advice, guidance, and potential treatment from your fertility expert, set you on the right track to growing your family.
Fertility Testing: The Male
Male factors typically account for half of the infertility issues in couples, therefore it is important to test both the male and female partner. With male patients, fertility is determined by checking sperm quality, production and movement. This is done through the following measures:
- Semen analysis
- History and physical exam
- Possible hormone profile
Fertility Testing: The Female
For females, fertility testing is a little more involved at times. The first step is scheduling an appointment with your provider to discuss your medical history such as birth control, menstruation history, history of pregnancies, medications, etc. This information is important to help your fertility expert understand all factors of your case.
Before testing is recommended, your fertility expert may perform a pelvic exam, including a pap smear. Other areas that may be evaluated include your thyroid, breasts, and hair growth. If it is determined that fertility testing is needed, your fertility expert may suggest one or more of the following measures:
- Special imaging: Special imaging tests can be performed through a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to evaluate the uterine cavity and fallopian tubes or sonohysterogram to view the uterine cavity for abnormalities or other issues.
- Blood tests: Blood tests including anti-mullarian hormone or day 3 FSH can be used to assess ovarian reserve to determine the number and quality of eggs in the ovaries.
- Other procedures: Other female fertility tests include hysteroscopy, endometrial biopsy, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test, and prolactin hormone test.
Fertility Testin
g: The Results
Until the results are in, try not to worry and stress. Even if an issue is detected, many times conception is achievable with theguidance or assistance of a fertility expert, such as the doctors at Carolinas Fertility Institute.
Learn More About Carolinas Fertility Institute
For over 20 years, we have been aiding patients in achieving their family planning dreams. If you are struggling with conception, we invite you to explore Carolinas Fertility Institute and all we have to offer. Our team of fertility experts specialize in fertility testing and conception. Come find out why we have some of the highest conception rates in the United States. Schedule an appointment today.