Infertile or Not, Make Sure of the Fertility Test

Infertility is a medical condition that can occur in anyone, both men and women. Almost all newly married couples want to have children soon. However, not all couples can be that lucky. Check out what is barren and the tests needed to test it. Women are often blamed if a partner cannot have offspring. In fact this is not always true. As many as 30-40 percent of infertility cases come from men, then another 40 percent from women. The rest, as much as 20-30 percent is a combination of fertility problems of the two.

What Is Infertility?

The World Health Organization (WHO) states, infertility or infertility is a disorder in the reproductive system where there is a failure to reach pregnancy after having sexual intercourse without contraception for 12 consecutive months. Primary infertility occurs when a partner has never had a child at all, while secondary infertility is a failure to have the next child after the first child. Various things can be the cause of this infertility, including infections in men or women.

Characteristics of fertile male sperm cells

Characteristics of a healthy male reproduction are characterized by the ability of the testes to produce sufficient healthy sperm cells. Healthy sperm must have the ability to travel and fertilize an egg after ejaculation in the female genitals. Fertility tests in men aim to find out whether there are disorders that cause infertility in men.

Characteristics of fertile female egg cells

Characteristics of healthy female reproduction are characterized by the ovaries which are able to release healthy egg cells. The reproductive tract then carries the egg into the fallopian tube (fallopian tube), so that fertilization can occur by sperm after intercourse. The fertilized egg then moves to the uterus. Fertility tests in women are intended to find out if there are disturbances in the process.

Most couples complain of infertility or infertility caused by problems with obstruction of the ovaries, blocked fallopian tubes, or problems with sperm. Meanwhile, other couples did not succeed in having children despite all the normal fertility test results.

Important factors for fertility diagnosis

When you and your partner consult with your doctor about the possibility of infertility, several factors will be asked to help identify possible root causes, including: As you age, the fertility of women and some men will decrease.

• Pregnancy history.

For women, the doctor will likely trace the history of labor and complications you have faced during previous pregnancy, including a history of miscarriage. As for men, it's likely to be questioned about the child you have had in a previous relationship.

• When you and your partner are trying to get pregnant.

Research shows that the average woman has the most fertile period at the age of 20-24 years, and will decrease when entering the age above 35 years. Couples of childbearing age who have sex without contraception, 92 percent of them will become pregnant within two years. Meanwhile, for couples aged 35-39 years, as much as 94 percent will get pregnant after one year and 90 percent after two years. If you are young and healthy, and haven't tried to get pregnant too long, you may be advised to wait a few more moments.

• Sexual intercourse.

To determine the possible cause of infertility, your doctor will evaluate how often you have sex. At the same time regarding the possible difficulties you face. Although you may feel embarrassed, it is very important to give an open and honest statement to the doctor.

• The period of time after removing the contraceptive.

You will be asked about the type of contraception that has been used and since when to stop it. For some types of contraception, it takes some time before the user's fertility returns to normal levels.

• Medical history and symptoms experienced.

To check for fertility, it is also important for your doctor to evaluate your previous medical history, including sexually transmitted diseases. For women, you will be asked about your menstrual schedule and whether there is bleeding between periods or after intercourse.

• Drugs.

Some medications can have side effects of infertility. The examining doctor will ask further questions about the medicines you are taking and the possibility of alternative treatments. Do not forget to also inform free drugs that you often consume.

• Lifestyle.

Some unhealthy lifestyles can affect one's fertility. Doctors who examine fertility will usually track your smoking history, how much you weigh, your alcohol consumption habits, and the stress levels you experience.

Several Types of Fertility Tests

General health conditions can affect fertility rates. Fertility tests or checks often begin with a physical examination. Then will be followed by special tests on the reproduction.

Test for men

Some reproductive tests specifically for men include:

• Sperm analysis. You will be asked to give a sample of semen for examination. Can be obtained through masturbation or during sexual intercourse and expelling semen into a special place. Then sperm analysis will be performed.
• Ultrasound. Through the process of ultrasound examination, doctors can detect the possibility of interference with male reproductive organs.
• Hormone examination. This examination needs to be done to determine the level of testosterone and other male hormones.
• Testicular biopsy. In certain cases it is necessary to take samples from the testicular tissue. This test aims to check if there are problems with the process of sperm production.
• Genetic examination. The possibility of doing this test to find out whether there are genetic disorders that can cause infertility.
• Chlamydia examination. Through urine samples, the doctor will determine whether there is Chlamydia. This infectious disease can be one of the causes of infertility.

Test for women

For women, fertility tests begin with a physical examination, medical history, and gynecological examination. Here are some tests that might be performed:

• Ovulation test. Blood tests are needed to measure hormone levels to determine whether you are ovulating and can produce eggs regularly.
• Examination of ovarian reserve of eggs. This test will help determine the quality and number of eggs available for ovulation. This examination often begins with a hormone examination at the beginning of the menstrual cycle.
• Imaging test. Pelvic ultrasound examination can be done to look for possible disorders of the uterus or fallopian tubes. You can also do hysterosalpingography or HSG. This examination can evaluate the condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes. During this examination, a special contrast fluid will be injected into the uterus. Then an X-ray is taken to determine whether the uterine cavity is normal, while ensuring fluid flows properly from the fallopian tubes.
• Hysteroscopy. When you have certain complaints about fertility, your doctor may recommend this examination. The trick, the doctor will insert a special tool through the cervix to monitor the condition of the uterus and check if there are abnormalities.
• Hormone test. You will likely be asked to do other hormone related tests. For example, thyroid hormones and the pituitary gland or the pituitary which also helps control the reproductive process.

In undergoing a series of fertility checks, sometimes not only revolves around physical problems, but must also be considered regarding psychological factors and costs. This requires patience, cooperation, and mutual support between partners.