Just as there are some basic initial tests for men; most women also typically endure the same first tests. Actually, the very first thing most women do after they encounter trouble conceiving is begin to track ovulation – either through ovulation prediction at-home tests or charting basal body temperature. If a woman finds that she is not regularly ovulating then she can talk to her doctor armed with that information that can help him devise a treatment plan. However, most physicians will also ask that the female undergo some additional testing to rule out other issues or to help pinpoint the primary barrier to fertility.
A number of blood tests are typically administered including measures of FSH, estradiol, progesterone and LH (Lutenizing Hormone). FSH and estradiol levels can indicate egg quality. Low progesterone can be a sign of annovulation and LH and FSH levels can indicate pituitary disorders or ovarian failure. In addition to blood tests, an HSG (Hysterosalpingogram} is often an initial evaluation tool ordered for many patients. An HSG test is essentially an x-ray that is conducted with the use of a special dye that is injected into the uterus and fallopian tubes. What the dye highlights on the x-ray can indicate blockages and other problems with the uterus.
I ended up having two HSG tests. One was conducted early on when I first began to explore fertility issues and the other was a requirement when we began IVF a few years later. The results from the initial test were not as accurate because of the number of years in between the two tests. Because of my previous ectopic, I knew that I only had one fallopian tube but the doctors wanted to also know how or if the other tube was functioning. Before both tests I found myself fearing what turned out to be a pretty painless procedure in the grand scheme of things. The HSG tests affect each person differently, I have known some for who the cramping and actual insertion of the dye was extremely painful and others (like me) who, probably because of minimal scarring or lesions or blockages or endometriosis found it to be a pretty bearable pain similar to monthly cramps.
Depending on what your doctor suspects as your particular issue there are a number of other “initial” tests like an ultrasound, endometrial biopsy, sonohystogram and laparoscopy. Because of fibroids, PCOS, polyps, cysts, etc. I ended up having both a sonohysteroscopy and a laparoscopy with removal of some fibroids during the sonohysteroscopy which also utilizes fluid contrast {like the HSG) but also allows for biopsy. It was actually quite empowering to have so much information about my reproductive system, my body and its issues, and my total fertility picture. I looked at the testing as a step in the right direction in finally getting started with fertility treatment and a way to gather essential knowledge for a long, hard fight. It really does help to look at it this way because all though I know the tests are scary and painful and expensive and just a too vivid reminder that you are having trouble conceiving – they are also beneficial and essential!
Related posts:
