Diagnosis of Infertility
Assessment of the fertility of a couple is a progressive process. Detail evaluation and examination of both partners helps to find the cause of infertility followed by a successful treatment. In some cases, the diagnosis is simple in others it needs a deeper and more elaborate investigation.
Evaluation of all of results will give your doctor a good idea about the possible cause of the infertility and then he will be able to help and offer an optimal treatment. At the present time we are able to help up to 95% of infertile couples.
Diagnosis of Infertility in Women
Ultrasound of the lower abdomen
The basic examination of a woman is a trans-vaginal ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries considering the menstrual cycle, followed by gynecological examination. The ultrasound exam helps to evaluate the size and shape of the uterus, presence of any fibroids, thickness and quality of the endometrium. It also provides the information about the shape of ovaries, growth of follicles, and presence of cysts or endometriosis.
Hormones levels
The blood test during first 3 days of menstruation gives the information on the condition of ovaries, their ability to produce mature eggs and potential answer to hormonal stimulation. Levels of the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone are looked at. It is possible to determine a level of Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) which also informs about the ovarian reserve. A standard part of hormonal profile is a prolactin level (PRL) and thyroid hormones levels (TSH, FT4).
X-ray of uterus and fallopian tubes – hysteron-salpingography HSG
X ray test of the uterus allow us to see the shape of the uterus cavity and patency or obstruction of fallopian tubes. Test is done by gynecologist. A special device is inserted in to the cervix and a dye is slowly injected. Its flow is visible on the x-ray.
Saline Infusion Sonography (SIS)
To visualize the uterine cavity & patency of fallopian tube by introducing normal saline into the cavity with a catheter. Test is done by fertility specialist.
Hysteroscopy
This is a method that enable us to visualize the uterus cavity and perform a small operation within the cavity and the cervix, removal of polyps, adhesions and septum removal. We do this at our clinic using a special optical device of a 2 millimeters gauge thanks to which we can do most of the procedures without general anesthesia.
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a diagnostic method used to carefully look into the abdominal cavity and check the fallopian tubes. Laparoscopy belongs to so called minimal invasive surgery methods. Using special devices and techniques it is possible to visualize the abdominal cavity through few small cuts and perform needed surgery without opening the abdomen itself. Laparoscopy is performed for diagnostic or therapeutic reasons.
Genetic examination
This is an examination of chromosomes that gives us an idea about the genetic profile of both partners. Abnormal findings could be one of the causes of infertility. They could also lead to a failure of the assisted reproduction methods. It could potentially lead to a repeated abortion. In men with pathological findings a failure in sperm development occurs. In those cases, the tests for cystic fibrosis are advised which is often present along with those problems. And also, a test for pathological micro deletion of the Y chromosome.
Immunological tests
Immunological test is a basic part of fertility testing of women at our clinic. Antibodies against sperm, eggs and embryos are detected as well as anti-phospholipid antibodies. Where indicated (repeated miscarriages, repeated failing of assisted reproduction methods) the cell immunity is tested.
Diagnosis of Infertility in Men
Sperm analysis.
Sperm cultivation.
Andrological test.
Sperm acrosome testing.
DNA fragmentation of sperm.
Immunological tests.
Hormonal tests.
