Inability to conceive; Unable to get pregnant

The physical symptom of infertility is the inability to become pregnant.

Experiencing infertility can bring on a range of painful emotions in one or both members of the couple. In general, having at least one child already tends to soften these painful emotions.

A complete medical history and physical examination of both partners is essential.

Tests in women may include:

• Blood hormone levels
• FSH and clomid challenge test to check ovarian reserve
• Hysterosalpingography (HSG)
• Pelvic ultrasound
• Laparoscopy (especially if endometriosis is suspected)
• Luteinizing hormone urine test (ovulation predictor kit)
• Pelvic exam
• Progestin challenge if periods are infrequent
• Serum progesterone
• Temperature first thing in the morning to check for ovulation (basal body temperature charting)
• Thyroid function tests

Tests in men may include:

• Semen analysis
• Testicular biopsy (rarely done)

Images

Sperm

Male reproductive anatomy

Pelvic laparoscopy

Primary infertility

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Infertility Overview

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Infertility Treatment

Review Date: 03/21/2010
Reviewed By: Susan Storck, MD, FACOG, Chief, Eastside Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Group Health Cooperative of Puget Sound, Redmond, Washington; Clinical Teaching Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)