Diagnosing reasons for infertility

The inability to have a child as a result of a fertility problem can have different causes.

The reasons for infertility can lie with either the man or the woman, and in some cases even with both partners. A targeted diagnosis is therefore the most important basis for successful treatment.

In our clinics we offer couples who are trying to become pregnant comprehensive diagnostic options so that we can identify the causes of infertility, align the individualised treatment plan accordingly and thereby support a successful pregnancy.

Medical history and initial examinations

After our initial consultation (anamnesis) with the couple wishing to have a child and the doctor treating them, our experienced specialist staff then carry out the first examinations on both partners. These examinations include, for example:

• a spermiogram

• an ultrasound examination of the woman's uterus

These examinations are the basis for further diagnostics and subsequent therapy in our fertility clinic. As soon as we have compiled and evaluated the results of these examinations, we can determine the causes of the unwanted childlessness in more detail.

Next, it is possible to prepare an individual, tailor-made treatment plan and the appropriate therapy for your fertility treatment.

Examination for the woman

In addition to a diagnosis of fertility disorders in women, there are other examinations that we want to compile for a comprehensive examination picture in our fertility clinic. The examination of hormones is just as much a part of this as the examination of the functioning of the fallopian tubes.

Below we have compiled an overview of the most important examinations.

• Gynaecological examination

• Cycle monitoring

• Hormone diagnostics

• Ultrasound contrast examination

• Uterus endoscopy

Gynaecological examination

The gynaecological examination is one of the basic examinations. It is the basis for determining possible organic causes of the previous infertility. As a rule, this gynaecological examination has already taken place with the gynaecologist treating you.

An ultrasound examination is often indicative for the detection of fibroids, polyps or endometriosis. The condition of the uterine lining can also be determined with the help of this examination.

Cycle monitoring

Cycle monitoring consists of several ultrasound examinations. Cycle monitoring usually starts on the 7th to 10th day after menstruation. For accurate monitoring, one to two ultrasounds are performed at intervals of a few days. In the middle of the second half of the cycle, a blood sample can be taken to rule out luteal insufficiency.

Hormone diagnostics

Many different hormones have a particular influence on a woman's fertility. Thus, both the female sex hormones and other hormones, such as the thyroid hormones, can be a reason for childlessness.

Hormone diagnostics with the most modern analysis techniques.

Hormone testing is done by a simple blood sample. As soon as the first results of these hormone tests are available, they will be discussed directly with you and - if necessary - treated.

Fallopian tube examination

With the help of modern computer technologies, a fallopian tube patency test can be carried out by ultrasound. This is done, for example, if it is assumed that the fallopian tubes might be damaged. It is possible to use ultrasound to examine the uterus and the fallopian tubes more closely. In this procedure, the fallopian tubes are flushed with a natural gel solution with the help of ultrasound and made visible in the ultrasound image. At the same time, the uterus can be examined through this HyCoSy for changes such as polyps or fibroids. Flushing the fallopian tubes during the HyCoSy is also a way of loosening minor adhesions and deposits, thus making the fallopian tubes more passable for sperm. This has been proven to improve the chance of getting pregnant.

Uteroscopy

The uterine cavity is examined during a uterus endoscopy. In this way, changes, malformations, disturbing muscle nodes or changes in the mucous membrane can be detected, which can also be the reason for bleeding disorders or the prevention of embryo implantation. During this examination, a small camera (two to five millimetres in size) is advanced from the vagina into the uterine cavity. The aim of this endoscopic method is to look for fibroids in the mucous membrane as well as polyps, malformations of the uterus and adhesions. This procedure is often performed in combination with laparoscopy.

Examination for the man

Hormone diagnostics

Just as with the woman, a comprehensive hormone analysis can also be very informative for the man. This is especially true if the sperm quality shows great limitations.

Hormone diagnostics are carried out by taking a simple blood sample. As soon as the results of this examination are available, they will be discussed with you and - if necessary - treated.

Spermiogramm

The assessment of sperm quality with a spermiogram is the most important examination to determine possible infertility in men. The sperm collection can take place in a room within our clinic or at home if the journey is no longer than 30 minutes.

The man's semen sample is analysed in detail: The central examination criteria here are the sperm concentration per millimetre, the total sperm count, the percentage of living sperm and the mobility of the sperm cells. In addition, a spermiogram can be used to examine the pH value, the volume of ejaculate and the shape (morphology) of the sperm.

Two spermiograms are the rule

It is recommended to have at least two spermiograms, as the values can fluctuate considerably. Health insurance companies also often require two spermiograms at intervals of a few weeks. Our staff will be happy to provide you with further information about the waiting period and transport of the sperm sample.

Do you have questions about the examinations?

A clear and rapid diagnosis is crucial for a targeted therapy. That is why we attach great importance to analysing a wide variety of examinations, so that we can say quickly, competently and in a targeted manner how further fertility treatment will proceed in our clinic.

If you have any further questions about individual examinations, please do not hesitate to contact us. Simply contact the clinic of your choice - we look forward to hearing from you!