Infertility Evaluation

female-infertilityFor women seeking to get pregnant, infertility can be devastating. Even more frustrating, determining the cause of infertility can be a long and arduous process. In some cases, a combination of factors may prevent a woman and her partner from conceiving. If you have been unable to get pregnant for a least a year, or for at least six months if you are over the age of 35, you may be suffering from infertility. Fortunately, the board-certified gynecologist at La Peer Health Systems, Dr. Peyman Banooni, can help. The first step to overcoming infertility is to schedule an infertility evaluation to determine the cause of the problem.

CAUSES OF FEMALE INFERTILITY

For women, finding the source of infertility often requires more extensive testing. Here are some frequent causes of female infertility:

  • Damage or blockage of the fallopian tube
  • Endometriosis
  • Ovulation problems and disorders
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Early menopause
  • Uterine fibroids

Infertility may result from an issue with the male partner, the female partner or a combination of issues stemming from both partners. Doctors may perform a semen analysis to determine the root cause of male infertility. Some common causes of male infertility include:

  • Insufficient sperm production or function
  • Poor nutrition, obesity, overconsumption of alcohol and tobacco
  • Certain genetic diseases or a history of cancer/radiation
  • Environmental factors and overexposure to heat (saunas, hot tubs)
  • Age

Discussing issues related to infertility can be frightening. The good news is that, today, a variety of tests and treatment options exist. To schedule an infertility evaluation with the experienced gynecologists at La Peer, call 855.360.9119 or contact us online.

INFERTILITY TESTING AND EVALUATION

The doctors in La Peer’s Gynecology department may perform the following tests to evaluate infertility in women:

  • Ovulation testing during this procedure, our doctors conduct a simple blood test in order to examine hormone levels and determine when you are ovulating.
  • Ovarian reserve testing evaluates the condition of the eggs after ovulation.
  • Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure. While the patient is under anesthesia, our doctors view the fallopian tubes, uterus and ovaries through small incisions. Laparoscopy can help identify potential causes of infertility such as endometriosis and blockages.
  • Hormone testing helps doctors rule out potential causes of infertility such as thyroid and pituitary hormone level issues.
  • Our doctors may order a pelvic ultrasound in order to check for uterine or fallopian tube disease.

Testing for the cause of infertility can be frustrating. However, an infertility evaluation is essential to determining the root cause of infertility and identifying the best method of treatment.

INFERTILITY TREATMENT OPTIONS

Fortunately, we live in an era where a number of treatment options exist for women suffering from infertility. For many women whose infertility is due to ovarian disorders, fertility drugs can help achieve desired fertility. However, other women require surgery to treat their infertility. The experienced gynecologists at La Peer may recommend surgery to treat blockages in the fallopian tubes. They may also prescribe in vitro fertilization, a procedure in which a woman’s eggs are removed and fertilized with semen outside the body. Doctors then implant the fertilized embryos into the uterus.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Q: How common are fertility problems?

A: According to some studies, more than 1 in 10 couples face infertility issues.

Q: When should I see a doctor for infertility?

A: Women under 35 should contact a doctor after a year of trying to get pregnant. For women 35 and over, see a doctor after 6 months of having frequent unprotected sex. Further, women with a history of ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease and miscarriage may want to see a doctor sooner about possible infertility.

Q: What factors may increase a woman’s risk of suffering from infertility?

A: Poor diet, obesity and a history of STDs can all increase a woman’s risk for infertility. Further, women become less fertile as a result of the natural aging process.

Q: Can infertility have a psychological impact?

A: Yes! Many women and men become frustrated by infertility. It’s important never to blame yourself for a fertility problem.

Q: Can doctors always determine a cause of infertility?

A: Unfortunately, for certain cases, the cause of infertility remains unknown. However, a variety of treatment options and medications exist to help men and women achieve the fertility they desire.

CONTACT A BOARD-CERTIFIED GYNECOLOGIST

Fertility problems can cause a great deal of emotional pain and distress, and the doctors at La Peer are committed to offering patients the caring, compassionate help they deserve. If you’re having trouble getting pregnant, please don’t hesitate to call 855.360.9119 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation with our board-certified gynecologist Dr. Peyman Banooni.

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