How is infertility diagnosed?

If you have not conceived after one year of regular intercourse without the use of any contraception, it is recommended that you see a doctor. The age of a woman is an important consideration as both the number and quality of eggs decline with age. Hence, it is important to seek medical help early especially if the woman is over 35 years old.

Relevant tests for both the male and female will be done to check for the different causes of infertility.

In females

For the female, blood tests are performed to look for ovarian reserve and to assess for ovulation. Women who have irregular cycles may also have their thyroid and prolactin levels checked.

A pelvic ultrasound scan is usually done to evaluate the uterus and ovaries for fibroids, polyps or cysts. A hysterosalpingogram or ultrasound saline infusion may be offered to assess tubal patency and to check the uterine (womb) cavity.  

In men

For men, the semen test is performed after abstinence of three to five days.