Typically, infertility is caused by a man’s inability to produce sperm or a woman’s poor quality of eggs. However, in some cases, the reason for infertility may not be as clear. Let’s take a closer look at the diagnosis and treatment of unexplained fertility.
Diagnosing Unexplained Infertility Male Infertility
Tests used to diagnose unexplained infertility are the same as the general infertility tests which include:
- Semen Analysis: This test is conducted to understand the concentration and quality of the sperm in the semen.
- Hormone Testing: This is a blood test to determine testosterone and other hormone levels.
- Testicular Biopsy: This test checks for abnormalities that mat trigger infertility.
- Genetic Testing: This tests the possibility of a genetic abnormality that may cause infertility.
- Imaging: In some cases, imaging tests such as a scrotal or transrectal ultrasound, brain MRI, etc. may be performed to identify structural issues contributing towards infertility.
Diagnosing Unexplained Female Infertility
Tests conducted to determine the cause of female infertility include:
- Ovulation Testing: This is a test to determine when a woman is ovulating.
- Ovarian Reserve Testing: This is a test to determine the quality of eggs available for fertilization
- Hysterosalpingography: This test evaluates the structure of the uterus and fallopian tubes to identify blockages and other such issues
- Hormone Testing: This blood test checks ovulatory and pituitary hormone levels
- Imaging: Imaging tests can help identify underlying health conditions physical deformities.
- Hysteroscopy And Laparoscopy: These are tests to check for potential physical abnormalities
If none of these tests have conclusive results and the couple still cannot conceive, the condition may be diagnosed as unexplained infertility.
Treatment
The treatment for unexplained infertility depends on many factors including how long the couple has been unable to have children, age and personal preferences.
Some of the forms of treatment are:
Medication
In the case of men, medication to improve sperm count and testicular function may be prescribed. Similarly, in the case of women, medication may be prescribed to stimulate or regulate ovulation.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
This involves placing the healthy sperm directly into the uterus at the time of ovulation.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
This involves retrieving the egg and sperm, fertilizing the egg with sperm in a laboratory and returning the fertilized egg or embryo to the uterus where it can develop through the rest of the pregnancy.
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
ICSI refers to the process of injecting healthy sperm directly into a mature egg.
IVF With Donor Eggs/ Sperm
If either partner’s egg or sperm is of poor quality, IVF may be conducted with sperm of eggs from known or unknown donors.
Gestational Carrier
In such cases, the fertilized embryo developed using the couple’s egg and sperm may be placed in another woman’s uterus for the rest of the pregnancy.
Do not let a diagnosis of unexplained infertility get you down. With the help of medication and modern forms of Assisted Reproductive Technology, you can overcome this issue and have a family of your own.
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