What Tests are Run to Diagnose Infertility?
If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, we understand that it can be a difficult journey. Many patients often wonder when they should seek fertility treatment and what fertility testing may be performed to diagnose infertility.
At Los Angeles Reproductive Center in Encino and Bakersfield, CA, Dr. Nurit Winkler and Dr. Marc Kalan offer comprehensive fertility testing to help identify the root cause of infertility.
When Should I Seek Fertility Testing?
If you and your partner are healthy and under 35, fertility doctors suggest that you seek testing if you have not conceived after one year of actively trying.
For those over 35, the timeframe shortens to six months of actively attempting to conceive.
Patients with certain health conditions may have shorter timeframes.
What Kind of Conditions Can Impact Fertility?
Certain conditions can make it difficult to conceive, including:
- Autoimmune disorders
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Testicular issues
- Cancer and cancer treatments
- Testicular trauma
If you have been diagnosed with any of these conditions, it is important that you discuss them during your consultation at our fertility clinic.
What Type of Testing Is Performed to Diagnose Infertility?
Testing to diagnose fertility concerns includes:
- Blood work - Blood work can help identify hormonal issues that may make conception difficult. Blood work will also indicate issues with egg production.
- Ultrasound - An ultrasound can help your fertility doctor identify structural issues within the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, such as cysts, septums, fibroids, and more. An ultrasound will also help your fertility doctor determine the quantity and quality of your eggs.
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) - Like an ultrasound, an HSG can identify structural abnormalities. It can also show blockages, which can hinder conception. A special dye is injected through the vagina into the uterus.
- Semen Analysis - Semen analysis allows your doctor to determine the quality and quantity of sperm in a sample. During a semen analysis, your doctor will look at the number of sperm present, how well the sperm move, and if the sperm are shaped normally. Your fertility doctor will also assess the volume of fluid produced during ejaculation and if the DNA within the sperm is damaged, also known as sperm DNA fragmentation.
- Physical examination - A physical examination is performed to ensure there are no abnormalities that may hinder conception.
- Surgery - In some cases, surgery may be needed to accurately diagnose fertility concerns. Dr. Kalan and Dr. Winkler can perform hysteroscopy at our Bakersfield office, which allows them to insert small cameras into the uterus to directly evaluate the endometrial lining and identify abnormalities within the uterus.
Struggling to Conceive? Contact Us to Get Tested and Discuss Treatment
If you and your partner have been unable to conceive, it may be time for fertility testing. Our doctors are dedicated to providing you with expert fertility care to identify the root cause of your infertility. This allows for more accurate treatment to give you the best possible chance of achieving a successful pregnancy. Get started today by requesting a consultation. During this appointment, you can discuss your options and start your journey to parenthood.