What is an infertility evaluation?
Asked by: Chance Lubowitz | Last update: January 24, 2026Score: 5/5 (50 votes)
What is the basic evaluation of infertility?
Most of the time, this diagnosis can be made based on your history, physical exam and lab tests. Other times, a biopsy may be done to find conditions that contribute to infertility. Or it may be used to collect sperm for assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
How does a woman get tested for infertility?
Blood tests to check hormone levels and ovarian reserve (the number of potential eggs remaining in a woman's ovaries). Pelvic examination. Minimally invasive procedures, such as ultrasound imaging (sonogram) and surgery, to check for structural causes of infertility.
What is the test for infertility evaluation?
We usually recommend having an AMH blood test to measure ovarian reserve hormone called Anti Mullerian Hormone (AMH). This simple blood test provides a very good estimate of the number of eggs that you still have in your ovaries.
What happens at a fertility assessment?
These will include a blood test to measure your progesterone level (ovulation test), an assessment of your Rubella immunity (German measles) and a semen analysis (sperm test). If you have already had these tests done within the last six months to one year they do not normally need to be repeated.
What is Infertility? A Fertility Doctor Explains the Infertility Evaluation
What happens at an infertility evaluation?
Tests for infertility include laboratory tests, imaging tests, and certain procedures. Imaging tests and procedures look at the reproductive organs and how they work. Laboratory tests often involve testing samples of blood or semen.
Does insurance cover fertility testing?
Under the California infertility health insurance laws, insurance companies must offer infertility insurance coverage for diagnosis and treatment of infertility. California does not require insurance companies to provide health insurance coverage, but they must offer the option for infertility benefits.
How long does an infertility test take?
Your fertility check results are generally available four business days after the date of collection. Once a doctor reviews your tests, our office will contact you regarding the best next steps or recommended follow up.
What drugs cause infertility in females?
These include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), some prescription drugs, including psychiatric medications and spironolactone, and chemotherapy drugs. Recreational drugs, such as tobacco, cannabis, and illicit addictive substances, may decrease female fertility.
What are signs of poor egg quality?
Infertility issues, frequent miscarriages, and irregular menstrual periods are the symptoms of poor egg quality. As women age, egg quality can decline, potentially resulting in chromosomal abnormalities that affect pregnancy success.
How do they check if a woman is infertile?
- Blood tests. Samples of your blood can be tested for a hormone called progesterone to check whether you're ovulating. ...
- Chlamydia test. Chlamydia is an STI that can affect fertility. ...
- Ultrasound scan. ...
- X-ray. ...
- Laparoscopy.
Can I get pregnant if my boyfriend is infertile?
If the male partner is infertile: IVF or ICSI
This is the most preferred method for achieving pregnancy with a sterile male partner. In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) are similar procedures except for a slight difference.
What are the first steps to check infertility?
If you believe that you or your partner may be experiencing infertility, it's important to seek an evaluation with a reproductive endocrinologist as soon as you can. Typically, the first steps will involve a visit to the doctor, blood tests, a pelvic ultrasound and a semen analysis.
Is a fertility assessment worth it?
Most experts recommend getting tested if you and your partner have been unable to conceive after one year of having unprotected sex on a regular basis. Healthcare providers use fertility tests to diagnose and treat both male and female infertility.
Can you lose fertility after having a child?
Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to conceive or carry a baby to term after previously giving birth. And it affects millions of parents, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. Even though you already have a child, secondary infertility can still be painful.
What are 2 drugs that can stimulate fertility?
The most common fertility drugs are: Clomifene citrate (Clomid) Metformin.
What are the symptoms of being infertile?
The main symptom of infertility is not getting pregnant. There may be no other clear symptoms. Some women with infertility may have irregular menstrual periods or no periods. And some men may have some symptoms of hormonal problems, such as changes in hair growth or sexual function.
What infection can stop a woman from getting pregnant?
Sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can damage the fallopian tubes. Having unprotected sex with multiple partners increases your risk of a sexually transmitted infection that may cause fertility problems later.
Can your obgyn do fertility testing?
A visit to an OB/GYN is generally the first stop in the fertility treatment journey. Your gynecologist can perform a preliminary fertility evaluation, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.
Is infertility genetic?
Infertility is a relatively common health condition, affecting nearly 7% of all couples. Clinically, it is a highly heterogeneous pathology with a complex etiology that includes environmental and genetic factors. It has been estimated that nearly 50% of infertility cases are due to genetic defects.
What are the first stages of fertility testing?
Seeing a fertility specialist
Women may have tests to check the levels of hormones in their blood and how well their ovaries are working. They may also have an ultrasound scan or other tests to see if there are any blockages or structural problems. Men may be asked for a semen sample to test sperm quality.
Why isn't infertility covered by insurance?
Infertility treatment, on the other hand, is typically not covered, regardless of whether it is iatrogenic or naturally occurring. One reason many insurance companies refuse to cover ART is that they are often viewed as elective procedures, not medically necessary ones.
How much does a fertility visit cost?
Consultations: Fertility specialist consultations cost $200 or more. Donor eggs, sperm, or embryos: Using donor eggs, sperm, or embryos can increase costs. The price may be different depending on whether the eggs and/or sperm are fresh or frozen. Also, you may have costs for agency and storage fees.