What are the tests for infertility?

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on January 18, 2025
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For infertility examinations, men typically undergo a routine semen analysis to check for any abnormalities. If there are abnormalities in the semen analysis, further testing might be needed for conditions such as varicocele or inflammation of the testicles and epididymis. For women, the examinations generally focus on the fallopian tubes to ensure they are patent, usually assessed through hysterosalpingography or a tubal patency test. Additionally, infertility tests include an ultrasound to monitor the follicles and check for any organic diseases in the uterus and ovaries. For women with menstrual irregularities, it's crucial to perform an endocrine test, specifically the six-item sex hormone check, as normal hormonal levels are necessary for regular menstruation and ovulation, and for the normal development of a fertilized egg. Other investigations for infertility might cover immune-related infertility among others, which require specific hospital tests. Moreover, if there has been a previous incidence of miscarriage, tests might include chromosomal analysis, tests for hemolysis, mycoplasma testing, and a set of tests for genetic counseling, all of which are part of the infertility examination process.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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Can Chinese medicine be taken for infertility?

In our clinical work, many patients often have this doubt: Can infertility be treated with Chinese medicine? It can be clearly stated that many diseases can achieve better results through the adjustment with Chinese medicine, and infertility is no exception. However, everyone's basic situation is different, and Chinese medicine cannot guarantee the treatment of all infertility cases. There are many diseases that cause infertility, and many reasons stem from either the male or female partner. There are both functional diseases and organic causes, making it not a simple disease. Issues with either the male or female partner can lead to infertility. It is advised to visit a local reputable public hospital for a detailed examination to determine the cause and then receive targeted treatment, whether through traditional Chinese medicine, surgery, or assisted reproductive technology.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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How to cure immune infertility

Immune infertility comes in many forms, such as anti-sperm antibody positivity and anti-endometrial antibody positivity, among others. The treatment for immune infertility commonly involves the use of isolating therapy, which entails using a condom during sexual intercourse. After using this method for three to six months, it can reduce further stimulation of the female by the sperm antigen, and once the antibody effect has dissipated, intercourse is timed with ovulation. At this time, conception is often possible. For immune infertility, some may choose intrauterine artificial insemination depending on the situation, which involves processing and separating the husband's semen outside the body to extract high-quality sperm for intrauterine insemination. Another method is anti-immune therapy, but the medications often have adverse side effects on the body.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is secondary infertility easy to treat?

If it is infertility, treatment is relatively difficult and generally not easy. First, for secondary infertility, it depends on the cause. If it's due to fallopian tube blockage, the extent of the blockage needs to be considered. If it is because the ovaries do not ovulate, then it is necessary to go to the hospital for endocrine testing. Treatment should be based on the results of the endocrine tests, and only when hormone levels are normal will there be normal ovulation and clear fallopian tubes. Without problems related to immunity, it is possible to properly prepare for pregnancy. Therefore, if it is secondary infertility, it is essential to go to the hospital for infertility-related examinations to identify any abnormalities and treat them accordingly. Both primary and secondary infertility are difficult to treat.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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Can infertility be treated?

Infertility is treatable. The examination and treatment of infertility are progressive and not just a matter of visiting a doctor once and taking some medication to see immediate effects. Often, it is a prolonged battle that sometimes requires six months, or even one to two years, and requires patience without haste. For many patients with infertility, the course of the disease tends to be long and the condition complex, leading to a relatively long treatment period. Therefore, when dealing with infertility and its treatment, it is advisable to visit the reproductive medicine department of a local public hospital for relevant examinations to avoid unnecessary detours.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Is infertility immunotherapy effective?

Infertility immunotherapy is effective, first looking at the cause of infertility. If infertility arises due to immune dysfunction, immunotherapy can be employed for targeted treatment at that time. If it is caused by fallopian tube blockage, tubal hydrotubation can be performed, followed by further fallopian tube treatment. Furthermore, if infertility is caused by anovulation of the ovaries, initially monitor the follicles via ultrasound. If indeed the follicles are not ovulating, medication can be used to stimulate ovulation. If infertility is caused by endocrine disorders, it is essential to regulate the endocrine system accordingly. Therefore, whether infertility immunotherapy is useful depends on the cause. If infertility occurs due to immune dysfunction, immunotherapy can be effective. If infertility is caused by other reasons, immunotherapy will be ineffective, hence it is crucial to evaluate the situation accordingly.