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Infertility needs to be excluded in couples who have been trying to conceive with no success, for a year. If this is the case it is a good idea to see your doctor for further checks. If the female partner is over 35 they you should see a GP sooner. Most couples (85%) will have no problems falling pregnant in the first year. However about 1 in 6 couples will have difficulty.
Infertility will only be diagnosed if a couple have been trying to get pregnant for two years without success.
The cause of infertility can be either primary, when someone has never conceived. Or secondary when a person has had one or more pregnancies in the past but is having difficulty conceiving this time around.
Causes of infertility
There are many causes, both in the female and the male, but it isn’t always possible to identify the cause.
Infertility in Women
- lack of regular ovulation
- blockage of the fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis
Infertility in Men
- poor quality of semen
Diagnoses
Women
- Progesterone test to see if you are ovulating (needs to be done a week before your expected period).
- Hormone tests (FSH/LH), thyroid, prolactin and testosterone.
- Chlamydia screening.
- Thyroid function test (up to 5% of infertile women have an underlying thyroid problem).
- Hysterosalpingogram (x-ray of the uterus and fallopian tubes).
- Hysterosalpingogram-contrast-ultrasonography.
- Laparoscopy ( exploratory investigation where a small cut is made in the lower abdomen and a telescope inserted to view the reproductive organs.
Men
- physical examination.
- semen analysis (provided offsite).
- STI screening.
Referral for Treatment
- medical treatment for lack of regular ovulation.
- surgical procedures, such as treatment for endometriosis.
- assisted conception, IVF.
- Egg freezing.
I am able to provide advice, blood tests and referral to private fertility specialists. As well as for egg freezing and other IVF services.
I have over 14 years experience providing sexual health screening and I offer a completely confidential, professional, non judgemental service from start to end. If you are not sure if you have been at risk, then I offer a normal consultation to discuss the possible risks and whether screening would be appropriate. We discuss and agree all costs beforehand so you know exactly where you stand and I will always provide you with clear and accurate advice based on current British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH )guidelines.
