Infertility

[Asherz]

Hi ladies, my DH and I aren't currently TTC, but because of my medical history and my personal choices in the past, we almost wonder if I might have some sort of fertility problem.

What kind of tests are done to determine if there is a problem?

Thanks for your help!

 

[InTheFlame]

The first standard one you'll usually get is hormonal... if you know you're ovulating, for example, they'll test your estrogen and progesterone levels a week after ovulation to see if they're at the right levels. Or they might test to see whether you ARE ovulating. Typically they'll want to test your hubby's sperm levels if they don't find anything unusual in those tests.

Something that I requested was a homocysteine level check... it's relatively unknown over here in standard medical circles, but is quite common - and quite easily fixed - when it comes to fertility problems. Tends to cause problems falling pregnant, but mostly causes miscarriages. I think it makes a fairly sensible early check.

I'm sure the other girls will be able to help you out more. I only had the very first hormone tests done before finding out I was pregnant for the second month in a row, and that time it stuck... so I didn't need to go further.

 

[Asherz]

How do they test if you are ovulating? Is it a matter of temping?

 

[gracefaith]

How do they test if you are ovulating? Is it a matter of temping?

It's a blood test to check hormone levels. Though by tempting or using home ovulation tests or saliva tests, you can also get a good idea of whether or not you're ovulating.

They can also check out your hubby's sperm count and motility. My friend, who is having some fertility problems, just went the other day and had vaginal ultra-sound to check out the health of her uterus and ovaries.

Keep in mind, most fertility clinics won't even see you until you've already been trying a year. If you're really concerned, I would read up (Taking Charge of Your Fertility is a good start) and start checking your fertility signs yourself first.

 

[Flipper]

Your husband can go to his doctor and get a sperm count done without too much hassle - for one thing, it's much easier and cheaper than any tests you might have to take, and it will eliminate 50% of what the problem could be, if there is a problem. If there is a low (or in my husband's case, no) sperm count, there are just a few things to do to see why. With us women, it could be a zillion different things, and each problem has it's own test. Better to get him ruled out first before you do anything.

I was kind of in the same situation - wondering if we would have problems because of my medical history and past choices. Ended up being that I was ok (now we aren't sure) and he had problems.