Medical Evaluation and Testing for Infertility

Here you will find information about the evaluation and testing that a health care provider may perform to determine the cause of infertility. Infertility testing requires a significant investment of time, money, and emotional and physical energy. However, a full evaluation can usually uncover one or more factors that may be reducing fertility. These may be male factors, female factors, or both. After uncovering the cause of infertility, a course of treatment can be recommended.

The decision to pursue treatment—and the extent of that treatment—is a personal one. You are encouraged to talk with your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns during the evaluation and testing. By learning all they can, you will be better able to make the important decisions that lie ahead.

Semen Analysis—A semen analysis is a test that tells your doctor the number of sperm in your semen, whether they are normal, and how well they move.

The Postcoital Test—The postcoital test (PCT) evaluates the interaction between the sperm and your cervical mucus at a time near ovulation.

Laparoscopy—Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure your doctor uses to look at your uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. If any problems are diagnosed, your doctor can sometimes correct them during this procedure.

Hormonal Evaluation—Hormonal evaluation studies help identify hormonal imbalances that may impair your fertility.

Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)—A hysterosalpingogram is a test that lets your doctor examine the inside walls of your uterus and fallopian tubes.

Endometrial Biopsy—An endometrial biopsy is a test that evaluates the endometrial tissue that lines the inside walls of your uterus.

Ultrasound Testing—Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of your internal organs on a monitor.

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