Symptoms & Signs
The physical symptom of infertility is the inability to become pregnant.
Experiencing infertility can bring on a range of painful emotions in one or both members of the couple. In general, having at least one child already tends to soften these painful emotions.
Diagnosis & Tests
A complete medical history and physical examination of both partners is essential.
Tests may include:
For women:
- Blood hormone levels
- Cervical mucus to detect ovulation
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Laparoscopy (especially if endometriosis is suspected)
- Luteinizing hormone urine test (ovulation predictor kit)
- Pelvic exam
- Progestin challenge
- Serum progesterone
- Temperature first thing in the morning to check for ovulation (basal body temperature charting)
For men:
- Semen analysis
- Testicular biopsy (rarely done)
Pictures & Images
Pelvic laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is performed when less-invasive surgery is desired. It is also called “band-aid” surgery because only small incisions need to be made to accomodate the small surgical instruments that are used to view the abdominal contents and perform the surgery.
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Infertility: Overview, Causes
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Infertility: Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Infertility: Treatment
Review Date : 3/17/2009
Reviewed By : Linda Vorvick, MD, Family Physician, Seattle Site Coordinator, Lecturer, Pathophysiology, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine; Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, WA; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
