The inability for a couple to conceive a child is known as infertility. Although couples across the Carolina’s have problems with infertility, many are unsure of when it is necessary to get a fertility test. If you and your partner have been having regular sex and trying to get pregnant for a year if you’re under 35 and six months if you’re over 35, you should consider visiting an endocrinologist for fertility testing.
Health Issues That Make It Difficult to Get Pregnant
There are certain health issues that can make it difficult to get pregnant. If you or your partner have a history of any of the following health issues, you should take a fertility test sooner than a year if you’re under 35 and sooner than six months if you’re over 35.
- Irregular periods
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Thyroid challenges
- Ectopic pregnancy
- Repeated miscarriages
- Ejaculation or erection problems
- Cystic fibrosis
Fertility Testing for Women
Prior to conducting a fertility test, an endocrinologist will conduct a physical exam and ask a woman questions about her medical history. Then, he will likely start with a pelvic exam to closely examine her ovaries, uterus, and Fallopian Tubes and give her a blood test to evaluate her hormones.
If the pelvic exam and blood test don’t explain the cause of the woman’s infertility, a hysterosalpingogram or HSG may be performed to determine whether her Fallopian Tubes are open. During this test, an endocrinologist will fill her uterus with dye and use an X-ray machine to watch it travel through her uterus and Fallopian Tubes.
In the event other tests do not identify the cause of a woman’s infertility, minor surgeries may be performed so that an endocrinologist can take a more thorough look at a woman’s ovaries, uterus, and Fallopian Tubes.
Fertility Testing for Men
Fertility testing of the sperm may be necessary and involve a physical exam and analysis of the man’s semen. A man’s semen will be tested for how many sperm are in it, how quickly his sperm move, the size and quality of his sperm, and the amount of seminal fluid he has. A blood test may be given to search for hormone issues.
Schedule an Appointment at Carolinas Fertility Institute
If you are struggling with infertility, the compassionate and experienced staff at Carolinas Fertility Institute can guide you and your partner through the fertility process. After learning more about your situation, we’ll determine which tests make sense for you and your partner to take. Schedule an appointment today by calling 336-448-9100.