Fertility Screening

What is fertility screening?

Fertility screening is a comprehensive assessment of an individual or couple's reproductive health and potential. It involves a series of tests and evaluations to identify any factors that may impact fertility and to provide insights into the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.

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Who needs to undergo fertility screening?

Fertility screening is recommended for individuals or couples who are planning to conceive, especially if they have concerns about their fertility or have been trying to conceive without success for a certain period of time. It can also be beneficial for individuals who want to proactively assess their reproductive health before starting a family in the future.

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What do you scan for in a fertility screening?

During fertility screening, healthcare providers conduct various tests and evaluations to assess different aspects of reproductive health.

 

These may include:

• Hormone level testing: This involves measuring hormone levels such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Abnormal hormone levels can indicate potential issues with ovulation, ovarian reserve, or other hormonal imbalances.

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• Semen analysis: For male partners, a semen analysis is performed to evaluate sperm count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and other factors related to sperm quality and function.

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• Ovulation assessment: This can be done through various methods, such as tracking menstrual cycles, monitoring basal body temperature, checking cervical mucus changes, or using ovulation predictor kits. It helps determine if ovulation is occurring regularly and predict the fertile window for timed intercourse or fertility treatments.

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• Imaging studies: Ultrasound examinations may be performed to assess the health of the reproductive organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. This can help identify any structural abnormalities, cysts, fibroids, or other conditions that may affect fertility.

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• Genetic testing: In some cases, genetic screening may be recommended to identify potential genetic disorders or chromosomal abnormalities that could impact fertility or increase the risk of passing on genetic conditions to offspring.

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• Medical history and lifestyle evaluation: Healthcare providers also take into account personal and medical histories, including any previous reproductive health issues, surgeries, or chronic conditions that may impact fertility. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and exposure to certain environmental toxins may also be assessed.

 

The specific tests and evaluations included in fertility screening may vary depending on individual circumstances, medical history, and the preferences of doctors. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of reproductive health and guide appropriate fertility treatment or intervention options if needed.