Fertility Testing
Don't wait
If you’re having problems conceiving, don’t wait. Come talk to the fertility specialists at Aurora BayCare. We can help you decide if it’s time to take action.
Experiencing infertility problems? Trying to conceive? The first step is to figure out why. Once we know the likely cause, we can determine the best approach to infertility treatment.
When couples are having trouble conceiving, our infertility specialists order several tests to evaluate the possible causes. A full fertility work-up typically includes the tests listed below:
- Semen analysis
A semen analysis is necessary for all males undergoing an infertility work-up. The sperm's quantity and motility are evaluated to predict fertilization capabilities.
- Blood Tests
Your baseline hormone blood tests help us determine if your ovaries are still producing eggs. Abnormal results may indicate ovulation disorders.
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
An HSG is an examination of the uterus and fallopian tubes performed between days five through ten of your cycle. Performed in the radiology department at Aurora BayCare, your physician will insert a speculum into the vagina, then thread a small catheter through the cervix and into the uterus. Your physician then injects radiographic contrast material (dye) into the uterine cavity and a series of X-ray pictures are taken. You may experience some discomfort similar to menstrual cramps.
- Sonohysterogram (SHG)
An SHG is an ultrasound examination performed in the clinic between days five and ten of your cycle, to evaluate the lining of your uterus for any polyps or fibroids. After inserting a speculum into the vagina, a thin catheter with a balloon is inserted into the opening of the cervix. A transvaginal ultrasound transducer will be inserted into the vagina to better look at the uterus. A small amount of warm saline is injected through the catheter allowing your physician to evaluate the uterine cavity.
If you have a history of recurrent miscarriages or are believed to have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), additional blood tests may be required. Infectious disease testing is required for all couples, per FDA recommendations.
Don’t wait. Talk to us about your concerns and we’ll help you decide if it’s the right time to consider fertility testing. First, find out why. Then the next steps are up to you. There are many infertility treatment options available.
Reproductive Genetic Counseling
If you are thinking about growing your family, or are already pregnant and concerned about your child's future health, you might consider genetic counseling.
When you meet with a genetic counselor, you will be asked to provide information on your complete family medical history. Your counselor will discuss the likelihood of your child being affected by a genetic condition and will make recommendations for follow-up. If genetic testing is applicable, you will have an opportunity to consider the benefits, risks and limits of testing before making a decision to proceed with any genetic tests.