Unexplained infertility in women may result from hormonal imbalances, ovulation problems, or unhealthy lifestyle habits. Proper diagnosis and infertility tests help fertility doctors determine the potential causes and appropriate treatments. Here is more information about diagnosis, tests, and treatments for fertility issues in women:
Diagnosis and Tests
Fertility problems in women may be primary or secondary. Primary infertility occurs when one hasn’t conceived even after trying to achieve pregnancy in the past. Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive again after giving birth to a previous child. Irregular, heavy, and painful menstrual cycles may signify the need for a woman to undergo infertility diagnosis and testing. Fertility specialists also help females experiencing miscarriages, unexplained weight increases, nipple discharge, or thinning hair. There are several fertility diagnostic tests a fertility doctor may suggest to determine the causes of these issues:
Blood Tests
Fertility specialists collect and test blood samples to determine the levels of follicle-stimulating hormones (FSH). A normal FSH level signifies properly functioning ovaries and adequate egg reserve. A follicle-stimulating hormone test confirms menopause or diagnoses conditions like abnormal menstrual bleeding and ovarian cysts. Fertility experts may conduct progesterone hormone tests to diagnose endometriosis or identify the risks of miscarriage. Other fertility hormones checked by blood tests include thyroid-stimulating, luteinizing, and estrogen hormones.
Ultrasound Scans
An ultrasound scan helps a fertility doctor see the condition of a patient’s uterine wall, oviduct, and ovaries. Reproductive specialists use transducer devices, which send sound waves throughout the pelvic anatomy to create accurate images. Ultrasound scans aid in diagnosing uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammation diseases, and ovarian torsions. Some types of scans that are used in testing for unexplained infertility include transvaginal, 3D, abdominal, and antral follicle count ultrasounds.
Biopsy Tests
Biopsy tests involve removing and screening a small sample of the uterine lining or endometrial tissue. The test helps a reproductive doctor check for endometriosis, cysts, cancer, polyps, and other problems that may cause infertility. An endometrial biopsy may be suggested for patients experiencing conditions like excess uterine bleeding.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG) Tests
HSG is a form of X-ray that helps a fertility doctor see what the patient’s uterine cavity looks like. With the help of an HSG test, the specialist may detect congenital uterine abnormalities and uterine scars. HSG tests also involve screening fallopian tubes to check for blockages or damage. This test may give more accurate results when conducted after menstruation bleeding stops and before ovulation.
Potential Treatments for Unexplained Infertility
The success of female infertility treatments depends on factors like age, pregnancy history, and underlying conditions. Infertility treatments for women include medications, surgeries, and assisted conception procedures. Some medications a fertility doctor might prescribe include gonadotropins, clomiphene, bromocriptine, and letrozole. Gonadotropins and clomiphene may help stimulate the growth of ovarian follicles and ovulation. Bromocriptine helps reduce high levels of prolactin hormones to encourage ovulation. Letrozole stimulates the release of more follicle-stimulating hormone and lower estrogen levels.
A fertility specialist may perform a fallopian tube recanalization to remove blockages or scars in the fallopian tubes. The specialist may also perform a salpingostomy to remove severely damaged oviducts. Women with pelvic adhesions or fibroids may undergo laparoscopy procedures to locate or remove the extra tissue. Hysterectomy surgical procedures hlep correct uterine problems like tumors or polyps, hyperplasia, prolapse, and others.
Assisted conception treatments include In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) and Intrauterine Insemination (IUI). IVF involves fertilizing a human ova with sperm outside of the womb. IUI involves placing sperm into the uterus using a tubal device known as a catheter to promote fertilization. Scheduling an initial consultation with an infertility treatment specialist gives patients an insight into which treatment is right for their health needs and family creation goals.
Visit a Fertility Specialist
A fertility doctor conducts thorough diagnoses and tests to help them determine the causes of unexplained infertility. Female fertility tests check for fertility hormone imbalances and the condition of the oviducts, uterus, and ovaries. Fertility doctors may recommend medications or surgical operations depending on the type of infertility the patient is diagnosed with. Schedule a consultation with a fertility specialist today to learn more about diagnostic testing and treatment options.