Infertility Work up

infertility work up

An infertility workup is a series of tests and exams done to find out why a person or couple may be having difficulty conceiving (getting pregnant). This workup helps doctors identify any underlying issues and recommend the best steps to increase the chances of pregnancy.


Causes
Infertility can be due to many factors, including:
    –Hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation or sperm production
    –Blockages in the reproductive organs, like the fallopian tubes
    –Age-related factors for both men and women
    –Lifestyle factors like stress, smoking, or weight issues
    –Genetic conditions or other health issues
Symptoms
The main symptom is not being able to get pregnant after a year (or six months if over age 35) of regular, unprotected sex. There may be no other symptoms, but in some cases, menstrual irregularities or signs like pain during sex could point to underlying issues.
Testing and Treatment
During an infertility workup, doctors may:
    –Conduct blood tests to check hormone levels.
    –Perform imaging tests like ultrasounds to look at reproductive organs.
    –Analyze semen for sperm count and quality in men.
    –Conduct specialized exams to ensure the fallopian tubes and uterus are open and healthy.
Treatment depends on the cause and may include:
    –Medications to balance hormones or stimulate ovulation
    –Lifestyle changes to improve fertility health
    –Surgical procedures to fix blockages or structural issues
    –Assisted reproductive technologies like IVF (in vitro fertilization)
With the right diagnosis and treatment, many people can improve their chances of conceiving.