1. Infertility Testing
For Women:
A variety of tests are performed to assess reproductive health and pinpoint any issues that might be preventing conception.
Medical History & Physical Exam: This includes questions about menstrual cycle, past pregnancies, previous health issues, surgeries, medications, and lifestyle factors.
Ovulation Testing:
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Charting: Tracks small rises in body temperature, indicating ovulation.
Ovulation Predictor Kits: Detects the surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which triggers ovulation.
Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels like progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and thyroid function.
Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound assesses the ovaries and uterus to detect problems like ovarian cysts, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or uterine abnormalities.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG): A dye is injected into the uterus, and X-rays are taken to check if the fallopian tubes are open and the uterine cavity is normal.
Sonohysterography: An ultrasound that checks the uterine cavity and any abnormalities such as polyps or fibroids.
Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive surgery used to check for endometriosis, scarring, or blockages in the reproductive organs.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): As mentioned above, eggs and sperm are combined in the lab to form an embryo, which is then implanted in the uterus.
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): Used in conjunction with IVF, this technique injects a single sperm directly into an egg.
Surrogacy: If the woman is unable to carry a pregnancy, a surrogate may carry the pregnancy using the intended parents’ eggs and sperm or donor materials.
Cryopreservation: Eggs, sperm, or embryos can be frozen and stored for future use, allowing for delayed pregnancies or additional IVF attempts.
Lifestyle and Supportive Measures
Healthy Weight Management: Being either underweight or overweight can affect fertility. A healthy diet and regular exercise may improve reproductive health.
Avoiding Smoking and Alcohol: These substances can negatively impact both male and female fertility, reducing the chances of conception.
Stress Management: High stress levels can interfere with hormone balance and reproductive health. Relaxation techniques, counseling, or fertility support groups may be beneficial.
Supplements: In some cases, doctors may recommend supplements such as folic acid, vitamin D, or CoQ10 to support fertility.
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