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 Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What to do if scanty menstruation leads to infertility?

If there is infertility associated with scanty menstruation, it is important to first identify the cause. It is necessary to consider whether the scanty menstruation is due to previous intrauterine procedures, such as a history of abortion, intrauterine device insertion or removal, which could have caused endometrial damage, intrauterine adhesion, or thinning of the endometrium. Hysteroscopy for diagnosis and treatment might be required. Additionally, possible endocrine issues should be considered. Blood should be drawn during the menstrual period to check for sex hormones, thyroid hormones, and others.

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Written by Wang Jing Hua
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What is infertility?

If a couple has been married for a year without using contraception, are not living separately, and have not conceived, or if there has been a history of abortion and no conception has occurred within six months of unprotected sexual activity, then this is considered infertility. Infertility can be due to female factors or male factors, with male infertility also accounting for a significant proportion. Male investigations are relatively simple, non-invasive, and also less expensive, so it is generally advisable to first conduct male tests, followed by female assessments, such as endocrine function, ovulation, uterine lining, fallopian tube examinations, or various biochemical tests, etc.

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Written by Zhao Min Ying
Reproductive Medicine
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Where is the best place to seek treatment for infertility?

After marriage, if neither party has a desire not to have children, and they have cohabited for more than a year with normal sexual activity without using contraception yet are still unable to conceive, they are diagnosed with infertility. Infertility pertains to females, and sterility pertains to males. If infertility is confirmed, one can first visit a local reproductive center for consultation. Currently, the technology and diagnostic methods related to reproduction are mostly uniform everywhere, involving a screening process. Therefore, one can begin by screening at a local reproductive center to identify some possible causes for not conceiving, including issues like ovulatory disorders in the female, fallopian tube factors, the presence of endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, immune factors, and the normalcy of the male sperm. After screening the causes, consider monitoring ovulation and guiding intercourse, or explore assisted reproductive techniques, including artificial insemination and in vitro fertilization (IVF). The best hospital for assisted reproduction in the country is Peking University Third Hospital. However, the level of assisted reproduction technology is similar nationwide, and facilities are continuously learning and sharing techniques, so one can choose a local center based on personal circumstances.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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Treatment methods for infertility

The main treatment methods for infertility include medication, surgical treatment, and assisted reproductive technologies. Medication can target endocrine abnormalities and reproductive tract infections in both males and females. Surgical treatment can be aimed at conditions such as varicocele in males and uterine fibroids and ovarian cysts in females. Assisted reproductive technologies primarily address severe oligospermia in males and tubal blockages in females, among other common diseases. It is recommended to visit the reproductive medicine department of a local public hospital to clarify the cause of infertility and receive targeted treatment. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Kang Jian Hua
Reproductive Center
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Infertility is divided into several types.

Common classification methods for infertility mainly include the following types: The first type is based on medical history, which can be divided into primary infertility and secondary infertility. Primary infertility refers to never having been pregnant; secondary infertility refers to having been pregnant before, but after trying to conceive for more than a year, despite having regular sexual intercourse without contraception, there has been no pregnancy. The second type is based on the treatment conditions, which can be divided into absolute infertility and relative infertility. Based on the results of treatment, it can further be classified into temporary infertility and permanent infertility. The third type is based on the causes of infertility, which can be divided into male infertility, female infertility, and infertility affecting both partners.