Fertility testing: what is it and why should you go for it?

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