If a couple are trying to conceive a child but are unable to do so for more than a year, one should consider going to a doctor and getting fertility tests done. A fertility test basically determines why a couple is facing problems with pregnancy.
It is generally recommended that the male and female partner go for fertility testing together. This is because the first time a couple visits the doctor, he inquires about their medical history and the kind of lifestyle they lead. Certain questions that he may put forth are about-
- Long term or recent health conditions
- Current medication
- Addiction to smoking or alcohol
- Excess caffeine intake
- Frequency of sex
- Birth control history
- Problems with sex
- Problems with Sexually transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Certain questions that he may ask the female partner are along the line of-
- A prior pregnancy
- Irregular periods
- Cases of spotting
- Appearance of large blot clots
Depending on the answers to the above questions doctors recommend fertility tests for women and men alike.
Why take an infertility test?
A couple should opt for an infertility testto determine the exact cause and extent of the problem, so that relevant treatment can be started. A successful treatment will allow the couple to conceive and nurture a child happily. Fertility testing makes couple realise exactly what is wrong with them, so that they can seek treatment and make necessary changes in lifestyle. This to a great extant also proves to control future complications.
Some fertility tests for women are-
- Pap smear a Pap smear is a test which effectively detects health conditions like cervical cancer or an STD, which may be interfering with pregnancy.
- Thyroid tests- detects hormonal issues
- Hysterosalpingogram- X-rays of the fallopian tube along with the uterus, to check for damage or blockage.
- Hysteroscopy- Uses a flexible tube, put inside the uterus to detect problems
- Laparoscopy- A surgery which checks the pelvis region for any damage.
Some fertility tests for men are-
- Semen analysis- it determines the sperm count and quality of sperms.
- Scrotal ultrasound- The ultrasound helps detect scrotal problems
- Hormone testing- done to check hormone imbalance
- Genetic tests- done due to low sperm count
- Testicular biopsy- to determine if there is a blockage that is preventing sperm transfer.
A couple should get an infertility test done to find out the exact cause of the problem so that they can receive relevant treatment and try for a baby thereafter