How is Fertility Evaluation Done? A Step-by-Step Guide

Fertility evaluation is the process of determining what the cause of infertility is when people are facing challenges trying to build their families naturally. Whereas much of fertility evaluation has been done to address infertility in women, infertility in men is an equal contributor to the infertility equation. As such, the practice is to evaluate both man and woman, in order to get to the root cause of infertility. So let us talk about what fertility evaluation is, what processes one undergoes, and what the results could  indicate. 

What is a Fertility Evaluation?

A fertility evaluation is a process of series of tests used to determine what is preventing a man or woman from building their family naturally. Fertility evaluations can consist of a few tests, or it could be a series of tests. The goal is to determine physical and hormonal reproductive function,  and general fertility potential. 

The results help doctors to determine the next steps for treatment. Fertility evaluations are usually done where infertility is suspected. Infertility itself is defined as being unable to conceive a child within six to 12 months of having unprotected sex. So let us look at some of the tests that are done during a fertility evaluation.

Common Tests in a Fertility Evaluation

As mentioned before fertility evaluations consist of several tests that evaluate a person’s reproductive capacity on a physical as well as hormonal level. To begin with, hormones are the core of a man or woman’s reproductive system. When the body does not produce hormones as it should, it impacts a person’s ability to reproduce.

Blood Tests

In order to test hormonal levels, medical professionals take a blood sample for testing. Testosterone is the hormone that makes men male and is responsible for their primary and secondary sexual characteristics. Estrogen is the hormone that makes women female and is responsible for their primary and secondary sexual characteristics. As well, they are responsible for the health and maintenance of sperm and oocytes, respectively. 

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are responsible for the development and maturation of sperm and eggs in both men and women. Inhibin in men and anti-mullerian hormone in women are responsible for regulating FSH. If any of these hormones are impacted it has a direct impact on a person’s fertility, and could lead to challenges in family building. 

Ultrasound and imaging

In order to understand what is going on on the inside of the reproductive system, doctors will use ultrasounds and imaging diagnostics. These tools provide the necessary visual representation of a person’s reproductive organs. As well, doctors are able to see if there are any abnormalities in the reproductive structures that may be contributing to infertility.

Semen analysis

A sperm or semen analysis is used to test the quality of semen in its volume and viscosity; the quantity of sperm within a single volume of semen; as well, the quality of sperm in terms of structure and movement. These factors are vital in determining how likely a man can make a woman pregnant using his sperm naturally. 

Genetic testing

Genetic testing allows doctors to determine if there is any possibility of passing down genetic conditions or disease to a child. As well the structure of DNA is assessed for any anomalies that could prevent the healthy development of a fetus. Anomalies could be hereditary, but they can also be caused by some types of treatment like chemotherapy or radiotherapy, as well, prolonged illness can have a negative impact on a person’s DNA. 

How to Prepare for a Fertility Test

Diet and Lifestyle

For many people, diet and lifestyle are the key contributors to infertility. The intake of excess junk food, canned foods, alcohol, nicotine-based products, and recreational drugs is one aspect. High stress levels, lack of exercise, poor sleep habits, and poor sexual health also have an impact on fertility. 

When a person changes their diet and lifestyle, includes exercise, sufficient sleep and manages their stress levels. The impact is seen in their reproductive systems. Typically this positive change has been the key to changing reproductive outcomes for many people.  However, when this is not effective, fertility testing will be conducted, and based on the results, treatment will be determined. 

Fertility Testing

What one can expect at a fertility evaluation is based on the aspects being investigated for causes of infertility. The professional healthcare provider will discuss the aspects of reproductive health that could be causing reproductive challenges, and then order tests accordingly. They will explain what each test is and how to prepare yourself ahead of time. As well, if the tests will be conducted in a specific order, this information will also be shared. 

Understanding Your Results

When results are out, the doctor will discuss the results one by one, explaining what was being investigated and what was discovered. At this point, they will explain what each result means, particularly in regards to family building. If they require more tests this will be discussed, and the discussion will proceed as above i.e. the what, why, when and how to prepare. 

If no more tests are required, the next discussion will be about treatment options. Again, each treatment, what it entails and what would be required of you will be discussed. As well, the goal of treatment will be discussed in light of family building goals. The benefits, duration, side effects, risks, and costs will also be addressed at this time. If you have any questions or concerns, these will also be addressed. 

Summary

Fertility evaluations are the most reliable way to get to the root cause of fertility challenges. These are available for both men and women who desire to build their families, regardless of the family structure. As well, fertility evaluations can be done even when one is not actively trying to build their family. Early fertility testing allows people to think through and plan ahead for future family building. For more information about fertility testing contact the team of experts at Utah Fertility Center. We are happy to assist you in achieving your family building goals.  

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