Houston Fertility Institute — Fertility Testing
There are many obstacles to fertility, including problems with ovulation, low sperm count, blocked or damaged tubes, and endometriosis. At Houston Fertility Institute in Texas, our physicians employ advanced fertility testing protocols to determine the cause of our patients' infertility and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
When Is Fertility Testing Necessary?
Since infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, the fertility treatments that are most suitable for a couple can only be determined after the cause of their infertility is identified. Typically, we recommend that couples in which the female partner is in her twenties or early thirties try to conceive for a year before undergoing fertility testing. Women between the ages of 35 and 39 should be evaluated for infertility after six months to one year of unprotected intercourse.
Types of Fertility Tests
There are a number of types of fertility testing that can help our Houston-area fertility doctors to establish the source of a couple's infertility.
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis can determine the man's sperm count as well as the morphology (size and shape) and motility (movement) of his sperm. It can also screen for antisperm antibodies. Learn more about semen analysis.
Hormone Evaluation
There are several hormones that must work together in the female body for pregnancy to occur and progress properly. Levels of reproductive hormones FSH, LH, and estradiol are measured on day three of the woman's menstrual cycle to determine her ovarian reserve (remaining egg supply). Hormone fertility testing can also detect the presence of excess androgens — male hormones produced by a woman's ovaries and adrenal glands. Elevated androgen levels may indicate polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
Hysterosalpingogram
An important part of a basic infertility evaluation, a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is a radiology procedure that is used to detect irregularities inside of the woman's uterus and fallopian tubes.
Post-coital Test
Performed two to eight hours after sex, the post-coital test measures the ability of the sperm to perform within the woman's cervical mucus. The post-coital test is scheduled during ovulation, when the cervical mucus is thinnest and most flexible and it is easier for the sperm to make their way through. Post-coital fertility testing may be performed at any of our Texas offices.
Transvaginal Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound test uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. This image allows the physician to detect any irregularities. It can also help us monitor the growth of the ovarian follicles.
Laparoscopy
During the laparoscopy fertility testing procedure, a small instrument called a laparoscope is inserted through a minute incision in the woman's navel. The instrument's tiny camera allows the fertility specialist to look for abnormalities of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes such as fibroid tumors, scar tissue, and endometriosis.
Contact our Center in Texas for Fertility Testing
Our infertility clinic is equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment to ensure the most accurate results with a range of fertility tests. Contact Houston Fertility Institute in Texas to learn how fertility testing and personalized fertility treatments may help you and your partner conceive.
Schedule an appointment at our Houston, Texas-area clinic for fertility testing.
Email us Today!A year ago I was doing research on fertility programs around the Houston area after years of longing to start a family. Thankfully, I came across the Houston Fertility Institute and nervously made my first appointment. It was then that I met Dr. Haddad and set off on my journey of making it all reality. He was very thorough in discussing my past medical history and answered all of my questions in detail. We discussed all options available as well as all procedures that would be needed. Once I was on my way through the IVF process, it was an interesting few months of injections, blood work, and ultrasounds at the Medical Center office. Dr. Haddad performed all my ultrasound scans and was always willing to listen to my concerns and answer questions that developed along the way. I trusted his recommendations entirely and I believe that made all the difference in my IVF cycle being successful. I also have to say that the great office staff was also so very supportive. Antoinette always made me feel at ease and was always encouraging. I noticed the same concern and great care for all the patients that walked through the doors at the HFI. Thankfully, I am now pregnant with twins, and I know that I would not have been successful had it not been for Dr. Haddad. After spending so much time visiting the office, I felt not only like a patient but like a friend. I will always be grateful for the help given to me and for making my dream of becoming a mom a reality.
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