 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
How is infertility diagnosed? |
|
|
|
How many women have infertility problems? |
|
How is infertility diagnosed? |
 |
Semen analysis - Look for ejaculate volume, concentration, motility (ability to move spontaneously), morphology (form and structure) |
|
Documentation of ovulation - Ovulation predictor kits, serum progesterones |
|
Postcoital test |
|
Evaluation of tubal patency (openness)
There are several techniques to
evaluate the fallopian tubes. The hysterosalpingogram (HSG) is an indirect x-ray
dye test where a dye that is visible on x-ray is injected through the cervix. If the
tubes are open, the dye will be seen to spill from the fallopian tubes on x-ray.
Multiple authors have compared HSG to laparoscopy and generally consider
HSG to be a good predictor of tubal patency, but a poor predictor of scar tissue
and endometriosis. Laparoscopy is still considered the gold standard for pelvic
evaluation, but it is expensive because it requires hospitalization. It is also more
painful because of the need for incisions.
|
|
There are several techniques to
There are 2 other modalities that have been used to evaluate the patency of the
fallopian tubes, Sonohysterography and THL.
Return to top
|
|
|
Sonohysterography - In this procedure, a small balloon tip catheter is
placed in the uterus and under ultrasound visualization, fluid is inserted
into the uterine cavity. Ultrasound can detect the spillage of fluid in the
pelvis. The procedure can be performed in the office. It is no more painful
than an HSG, but does not expose the woman to x-rays.
Return to top
|
|
THL - Transvaginal hydrolaparoscopy is close in accuracy to standard
abdominal laparoscopy and more accurate than HSG. THL can be
performed in the office with minimal oral sedation (no IV is necessary).
Pelvic anatomic problems can be diagnosed more accurately than with
HSG. The Advanced Women's Health Institute feels that office THL is the
most cost-effective approach to evaluate pelvic problems that cause
infertility.
Return to top
|
|
How many women have infertility problems?
Infertility affects 10-15% of reproductive age couples in U.S. The number of couples experiencing this
problem continues to grow over the years.
Return to top
|
|
|
|
|
