In order to find out the reason why a couple cannot achieve a pregnancy, it is essential to perform a fertility study with several tests.
A fertility check consists basically of the following tests (not all of these are always performed):
Fertility study
Study of the woman
Transvaginal ultrasound: this test is carried out to examine the state of the womb and the ovaries. During this test, we will be able to see if there are any womb problems such as polyps and myomas. We will also examine the ovaries, measure the size and look for folicles.
Bacteriology tests: to be sure there are no cervical infections.
Blood test on the third day of the menstrual cycle: this is to measure hormones such as FSH, LH and Prolactin. Knowing these levels we will be able to know more about the ovarian function.
Hysterosalpingography or Hysterosonography: X-Ray or ultrasound with contrast fluids to study the uterus and the fallopian tubes.
Study in men
Sperm Analysis: this is an essential test in the fertility study. It gives us many parameters of the semen sample being the most important ones the sperm count (amount of sperm) and motility. Click here to learn more details about this study.
Sperm capacitation test: this test subjects the sperm sample to the same process we use when performing an assisted reproduction technique. We do this in order to see how it responds.
How long does the fertility study take?
The Fertility Study normally takes between one and two months, this depends on the date of the patient’s last menstruation. If the woman goes to the first appointment just a few days before her menstruation, the study can be carried out in just one month.
Once the fertility study has been completed and the causes of the infertility or sterility are known, we will be able to advise the most adequate treatment for each individual case.
