Why can't I get pregnant? Basic sterility study

Normally, a couple wanting children is successful during the first year of trying. If this is not the case, you have to begin to think that there may be a problem. Accordingly, 90% manage to get pregnant in the first year. The rest should visit a fertility clinic for tests to find out the reason for the delay. Among others, the basic tests initially requested are as follows:

The man :

• A sperm test. This is to find out the characteristics of the semen regarding the number, mobility and shape of the spermatozoons.

The woman :

• Gynaecological examination with an echograph.
• Hysterosalpingograph or x-ray of the fallopian tubes. This is to find out the shape and appearance of the womb and the fallopian tubes as well as their permeability for gathering and carrying the ovum to the womb.
• Hormone analysis. This is to find the value of the hormones that control ovulation and the menstrual cycle.

 

Besides these tests, others might be necessary, such as the following :

• Endometrial biopsy.
• Postcoital test.
• Hysteroscopy.
• Laparoscopy.
• Additional hormone analysis.

Once the study has been completed, the tests are assessed to determine the possible causes for the sterility and to select the corresponding assisted reproduction treatment. The application of one technique or another logically depends on the cause of the sterility.