Fertility Evaluation and Infertility Treatment

A standard fertility evaluation will include a physical examination, as well as medical and sexual histories of both partners.  For women, your doctor will first see whether ovulation is occurring.  This can be determined and monitored through blood tests that detect hormones, ultrasound exams of the ovaries, or an ovulation home test kit. If a woman has an irregular menstrual pattern, it could be a sign of an ovulation problem, but it is also possible for a woman with regular periods to have an ovulation disorder, as well.

If a woman is ovulating, your gynecologist will move to a standard test called the hysterosalpingogram, which is a type of x-ray of the fallopian tubes and uterus.  X-rays will be taken and if the fallopian tubes are open, the dye will flow through the tubes and be visible in the abdominal cavity. If the fallopian tubes are blocked, the dye will be retained in the uterus or fallopian tubes, depending on the location of the blockage.

Your doctor will continue to perform tests to determine if you are fertile or not.  If you are infertile, you can undergo treatment. Infertility treatment depends on the cause, how long you have been infertile, your age and your partner’s age, in addition to many personal preferences while some infertility issues cannot be corrected.

A woman might need just one or two therapies to restore fertility, but it is also possible that several different types of treatment may be needed before you are able to conceive.

Some of the infertility treatments available at our Dothan, AL practice include:

• Stimulating ovulation with fertility drugs
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
• Surgery to restore fertility
• Assistive reproductive technology

Visit your gynecologist for more information on fertility and infertility.  Your gynecologist will work with you to determine your fertility and to help you if you are infertile.

For more information on infertility in the Dothan, AL area, submit a message through our contact form or call Womens Medical Center at (334) 793-3900 today!