Infertility

Infertility: Causes, Treatment and Scanning

Ultrasound Scanning:

A good way of spotting signs of infertility early is through ultrasound scanning. 

Ultrasound is used to rule out abnormalities in the ovaries and the womb and investigate infertility problems.

The initial scan to screen for fertility problems can check for:
• Ovarian cysts, particularly resulting from endometriosis
• Abnormally small or inactive ovaries
Uterine fibroids (benign fibrous growths within the muscle)
Adenomyosis
Hydrosalpinges (swollen fallopian tubes)

Causes of Infertility:

If you do the following, you are at an increased risk of infertility:

  • Increasing age
  • Smoking cigarettes
  • Heavy use of alcohol. If you are addicted, seek help. Read more
  • Overweight, obese, or significantly underweight
  • Having STIs can damage the reproductive system and your fertility

If you are drinking, taking drugs, or smoking, this can not only risk your fertility but can cause deformities or health problems in your baby.

There are also various medical conditions that can affect female fertility and the reproductive system.

You might be suffering from ovarian disorders, which can be caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or imbalances in your hormones.

Other conditions include: 

Infertility Tests for women

  • Ovulation testing. A blood test conducted by your doctor can measure hormone levels to determine whether you’re ovulating successfully.
  • Hysterosalpingography. A valuation of the condition of your uterus and fallopian tubes. A hysterosalpingography checks for blockages or other problems. X-ray contrast is injected into your uterus, and an X-ray determines whether the cavity is normal.
  • Ovarian reserve testing. This testing helps determine the quantity of the eggs you have which are available for ovulation.  Hormone testing begins early in the menstrual cycle.

Depending on your situation, in some rare cases you may have:

  • Hysteroscopy. Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may suggest a hysteroscopy to look for signs of uterine disease. A thin, lighted device is inserted through your cervix into your uterus to view any possible abnormalities.