Investigations into Infertility

Information about some of the more common investigations required when finding out possible reasons for infertility.

Some of the tests involved in attempting to find a reason for infertility can seem invasive and somewhat onerous but they all have their purpose.

Whether you are at the blood test stage or proceeding further down the line, this list will give you an idea of what you may be facing.

 

Blood Tests – These are taken to identify hormone levels which play a part in the control of ovulation.  You may hear these hormone names:

LH & FSH – Lutenising Hormone and Follicle Stimulating Hormone – both produced by the pituitary gland, they help regulate and control your menstrual cycle and egg production.

Oestrogen – A hormone produced by the ovary which contributes to development of follicles.  (Within follicles are developing eggs)

Progesterone – A hormone which rises after ovulation and prepares your womb for receiving a fertilised egg.

Testosterone – a male sex hormone required for sperm production, however also produced in women’s ovaries.

Thyroid  Hormone – A hormone critical to normal development of baby’s brain and nervous system.  During the first trimester the baby will depend solely on it's mother’s supply of this hormone.

 

Ultrasound Scan – An image of the internal organs produced when sound waves are directed onto the body – these scans can be external or internal.

 

HSG (Hysterosalpingogram) – a type of x-ray to determine fallopian tube blockage.  Dye is injected into your uterus and fallopian tubes and the path of this dye followed by x-ray.

 

Hysteroscopy/Laparoscopy – a small camera (laparoscope) is inserted (under surgical conditions) through a small incision in your abdomen and used to detect uterus and fallopian tube abnormalities.

 

Semen analysis – an examination of your partner’s sperm to assess the sperm count (number of sperm), percentage of moving and quality sperm and percentage of abnormal sperm.

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