Types of tests of Infertility

To find out what a couple's issues are requires a number of tests. The exams include the following:

    * Physical exams, including full medical histories. That will include discussions of previous disease or injuries that could impact the reproductive systems of either person. Things such as pelvic injuries, STD's even vascular problems from heart or arterial disease.

    * Semen analysis will be done to check the number of sperm, their shape and their mobility.

    * Ovulation will be checked. For the woman, the first step in testing is to determine if she is ovulating each month. This can be done by charting changes in morning body temperature, by using an FDA-approved home ovulation test kit (which is available over the counter), or by examining cervical mucus, which undergoes a series of hormone-induced changes throughout the menstrual cycle. Checks of ovulation can also be done in the physician's office with simple blood tests for hormone levels or ultrasound tests of the ovaries. If the woman is ovulating, further testing will need to be done.

    * A history of problems, if there are any, such as irregular bleeding or pain.

    * An x-ray or "dye test" to check for blocked fallopian tubes or an abnormal uterus.

    * A more advanced test called laparoscopy can be used to check a woman for scar tissue or endometriosis. This is usually done on an outpatient (same day) basis. The surgeon inserts a thin, lighted tube (called a laparoscope) through the abdominal wall, generally via the belly button and one or two other small incisions, to inspect the inside of the abdomen, remove tissue samples and treat the disease.


Even with these tests, it may not be possible to identify a specific reason a couple has not been able to conceive. However, they may provide an answer and with proper treatment, a baby.