Fertility Tests for Women

1. How it works: The transvaginal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. A small probe called a transducer is inserted into the vagina, which emits sound waves and receives their echoes to generate the images.

2. What it can detect: Transvaginal ultrasounds can help identify various conditions that may impact fertility, such as:

• Ovarian cysts or tumors
• Uterine fibroids
• Endometrial polyps
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Endometriosis
• Congenital abnormalities of the reproductive organs

• The procedure: The transvaginal ultrasound is typically performed in a doctor’s office or imaging center. You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and lie down on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. The healthcare provider will then gently insert the lubricated transducer into your vagina. The procedure is usually painless, but you may experience some mild discomfort or pressure.
• Preparation: To prepare for a transvaginal ultrasound, you may be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure. There’s no need for fasting or any other special preparation.
• Results: The images captured during the ultrasound will be interpreted by a radiologist or your healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings with you and recommend any further tests or treatments if necessary.

Transvaginal ultrasounds are an essential tool in diagnosing female infertility, providing valuable insights into the health of your reproductive system and helping identify potential issues that may be impacting your ability to conceive.

• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles. Abnormal FSH levels can indicate issues with egg development or ovulation.
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH): LH triggers ovulation. Imbalanced LH levels can cause irregular or absent ovulation.
• Estradiol: Estradiol is a form of estrogen that helps regulate the menstrual cycle. High or low levels can impact egg development and ovulation.
• Progesterone: Progesterone prepares the uterus for implantation and supports early pregnancy. Low levels can indicate problems with the luteal phase or potential issues maintaining a pregnancy.
• Prolactin: Elevated prolactin levels can interfere with the normal functioning of other reproductive hormones and disrupt ovulation.
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Imbalances in thyroid hormones can impact fertility by affecting ovulation, menstrual cycles, and pregnancy outcomes.

• Timing: Hormone blood tests are usually performed at specific times during a woman’s menstrual cycle to ensure accurate results. For example, FSH and LH tests are often done on day 2 or 3, while progesterone tests are typically performed about a week after ovulation.
• Interpreting results: Your healthcare provider will analyze the results of your hormone blood tests in the context of your overall health, medical history, and symptoms. They may recommend further testing or treatments based on the findings.

Hormone blood tests are a vital tool in understanding and addressing female infertility, providing essential insights into the hormonal balance needed for a successful pregnancy.

How it works: The transvaginal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. A small probe called a transducer is inserted into the vagina, which emits sound waves and receives their echoes to generate the images.

What it can detect: Sonohysterography can help identify various uterine abnormalities that could impact fertility, such as:

• Uterine fibroids
• Endometrial polyps
• Uterine septum or other congenital abnormalities
• Adhesions or scar tissue within the uterus
• Abnormal uterine shape or size

• The procedure: The sonohysterography is typically performed in a doctor’s office or imaging center. You’ll be asked to undress from the waist down and lie down on an examination table with your feet in stirrups. A transvaginal ultrasound probe will be inserted into your vagina, and a thin catheter will be passed through your cervix into your uterus. Sterile saline solution will then be gently infused through the catheter, and the ultrasound will capture images of your uterine cavity.
• Preparation: Sonohysterography is usually performed within the first half of your menstrual cycle, after your period has ended but before ovulation. This timing helps ensure that the uterine lining is thin, making it easier to identify any abnormalities. You may be asked to take an over-the-counter pain reliever before the procedure, as some women experience mild cramping during the saline infusion.
• Results: The images captured during the sonohysterography will be interpreted by a radiologist or your healthcare provider, who will discuss the findings with you and recommend any further tests or treatments if necessary.

Sonohysterography is an essential diagnostic tool for female infertility, providing a detailed view of the uterine cavity and helping to identify potential issues that may affect your ability to conceive.

How it works: Laparoscopy involves making several small incisions in the abdomen, through which a thin, lighted instrument called a laparoscope and other specialized surgical tools are inserted. The laparoscope transmits images of the internal organs onto a monitor, allowing your healthcare provider to closely examine the reproductive organs and surrounding tissues.

What it can detect:Laparoscopy can help diagnose and treat a variety of conditions that may impact fertility, such as:

• Endometriosis
• Pelvic adhesions or scar tissue
• Ovarian cysts or tumors
• Tubal blockages or damage
• Uterine fibroids or abnormalities

• Diagnostic vs. operative laparoscopy: Laparoscopy can be performed for diagnostic purposes to identify potential fertility issues or as an operative procedure to treat certain conditions. During an operative laparoscopy, surgical instruments can be used to remove or repair damaged tissue, remove cysts or fibroids, or correct other abnormalities affecting fertility.
• The procedure: Laparoscopy is typically performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital under general anesthesia. Your healthcare provider will make one or more small incisions in your abdomen, through which the laparoscope and other surgical instruments will be inserted. The procedure usually takes between 30 minutes and a few hours, depending on its complexity.
• Preparation: Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for your laparoscopy, which may include fasting and bowel preparation. You’ll also need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you’ll be recovering from anesthesia.
• Recovery: After a laparoscopy, you may experience some discomfort, bloating, or mild pain for a few days. Most women can return to their normal activities within a week, but your healthcare provider will provide you with specific instructions based on your individual circumstances.

Laparoscopy is an essential diagnostic and treatment tool for female infertility, offering a minimally invasive approach to examining and addressing potential issues within the pelvic and abdominal areas that may affect your ability to conceive.