Infertility Evaluation & Treatment: Steps Toward Parenthood
Initial Evaluation and Diagnostic Tests
Infertility evaluation begins with a thorough medical history, lifestyle assessment, and physical exams for both partners. For women, tests include blood work to check hormone levels (FSH, LH, AMH, prolactin, thyroid), ovulation tracking via basal body temperature or kits, and transvaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve, uterine shape, and follicles. Hysterosalpingography (HSG) evaluates tubal patency, while sonohysterography detects intrauterine abnormalities. For men, semen analysis is primary, examining count, motility, and morphology; hormonal tests or genetic screening follow if needed. About 15-20% of cases remain unexplained after basic tests. Advanced diagnostics like laparoscopy or scrotal ultrasound pinpoint issues like endometriosis or varicocele.
Common Causes and Targeted Approaches
Causes are female-related in 30-40% (ovulation disorders like PCOS, tubal factors, endometriosis), male-related in similar proportion (low sperm quality, hormonal imbalances), combined in 20%, or unexplained. Age impacts egg/sperm quality significantly. Lifestyle factors—smoking, obesity, stress—exacerbate issues. Evaluation identifies treatable causes: surgery for fibroids/varicocele, medications for thyroid or prolactin issues. Couples benefit from joint counseling to address emotional aspects early. At Dr. Mansha Grover’s clinic, we conduct comprehensive evaluations with empathy, ensuring both partners are involved for accurate diagnosis and realistic expectations.
Treatment Options and Advanced Fertility Care
Treatments progress from least to most invasive: ovulation induction with drugs like clomiphene or letrozole for anovulation, often combined with timed intercourse. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) washes and places sperm directly, ideal for mild male factors or cervical issues. In vitro fertilization (IVF) retrieves eggs, fertilizes in lab, and transfers embryos—effective for tubal blockage, severe male infertility, or advanced age; success rates vary 20-40% per cycle depending on age. Add-ons like ICSI (single sperm injection), PGT (genetic testing), or egg/sperm donation enhance outcomes. Dr. Mansha Grover specializes in personalized protocols at Motherhood Hospital, Noida, offering IUI, IVF, and supportive therapies like acupuncture to maximize success while prioritizing patient well-being.