Fertility treatment can be baffling at times. In our blog we want to give you a clear idea of what to expect from visits at Park Avenue Fertility. Today we’d like to focus on the first steps and explain the very beginning of the process.
At your first hour-long consultation with Dr. Andrew Levi, he will discuss with you the specifics of your situation and address all your questions and concerns. Dr. Levi has vast experience in the fertility field; he recognizes how hard it can be to face the challenges of infertility and will approach your case with detailed consideration. His patients love his genuine care and support, which helps them feel more at ease and confident about the positive outcome.
During the consultation, Dr. Levi will draft the plan of action and prescribe some tests that may help determine the cause of infertility. The testing typically involves both partners, since often conception difficulties can be caused by problems with the male reproductive system. At your first consultation Dr. Levi will be happy to answer your questions about the details of the evaluation process and what to expect during the tests. So, let’s take a closer look at those tests.
Fertility tests for women
Female patients are evaluated based on the circumstances of their infertility. Usually Dr. Levi prescribes the basic tests to begin with. If the root of the problem still remains unclear after the results are in, he may recommend more specific tests.
Here is the list of typical infertility tests for women:
Blood work
Blood testing helps analyze the level of various hormone levels that play an important role in making conception possible. For more definitive results, blood work may be prescribed on several different days of the menstrual cycle.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound helps detect any physical abnormalities in the female reproductive system, like deviations in the form of the uterus or in its lining. This test can also be used to estimate a woman’s “ovarian reserve”.
HSG, or hysterosalpingogram
The HSG helps assess the size of the uterus, its shape and any blockages in the fallopian tubes.
Endometrial biopsy
This is a less common test which consists of extracting and evaluating a small amount of uterine lining (endometrium), to determine if there are any issues involving embryo implantation.
Hysteroscopy
During hysteroscopy, a thin fibro-optic is inserted into the uterus through the cervix. This helps to directly view the interior of the uterus.
Sonohysterogram (SHG)
SHG involves gently injecting a small amount of salt water (a teaspoon or 2 typically) into the uterus to see if polyps, fibroids or scar tissue are present.
Diagnostic laparoscopy
This is a more invasive procedure, as it is a surgery requiring general anesthesia and is performed in the hospital. Diagnostic laparoscopy may be done to confirm endometriosis, treat fallopian tube blockages or further explore causes of unexplained infertility.
Fertility tests for men
Semen evaluation is the standard test performed to determine if male infertility is present. In order to verify the results, this test may be done twice on different days. Normally, this is enough to confirm male infertility. On some occasions, additional tests might be required (that are usually performed by a urologist):
- General physical exam of the reproductive system
- Specialized semen analysis
- Blood work to check hormone levels
- Ultrasound of the reproductive system
After the testing phase Dr. Levi will meet with you to discuss the results of the evaluation and to recommend a treatment strategy. As our patient, you can be sure that your case will be evaluated and treated with ultimate precision and detailed consideration.
To learn more about infertility treatment, visit our website and schedule your consultation with Dr. Andrew Levi. Our patients love the personalized care they receive at Park Avenue Fertility. Our flexible hours, the soothing environment and timely service at our offices will help make your experiences more enjoyable. We are looking forward to seeing you at one of our convenient locations in Fairfield and Trumbull, CT.