Procedure expected on initial visit to an infertility clinic

Before any therapy begins, a doctor conducts a complete investigation of both partners; therefore, both must be present at the first visit. It is essential that both be committed in any quest for conception and willing to support each other through the emotional ups and downs of therapy.

The basic workup for infertility involves four areas:
1. Semen analysis
2. Evaluation of ovulation
3. Post coital test
4. Evaluation of tubes

A detailed medical and sexual history are taken, and various tests and procedures performed to check each area. Even if a difficulty is found in one area, the whole workup is completed in the event other problems need to be considered. If a man produces few sperm, for instance, it would not be helpful to try artificial insemination when his partner has blocked tubes.


What will be the questions to both of you at an infertility clinic on first visit:

At the initial visit for infertility, the doctor takes a thorough family and personal medical history.

Typically the following information you have to provide:

#Nature of jobs of both the partners e.g, night shifts, stress, humid working conditions, prolonged traveling etc.
#Length and regularity of menstrual cycle
#Any unusual pain or cramping, vaginal discharge, or bleeding
#Previous marriages or pregnancies
#Contraception used
#Sexual habits (frequency, technique, use of lubricants during sex)
#General health (any operations, infections, injuries to reproductive organs)
#Any drug or medication usage (including alcohol and tobacco)
Length of time you've been trying to get pregnant
#Birth defects in either partner or families

Don't hold back any information out of embarrassment. In fact, before you go, try to think back over your sexual, reproductive, and medical history. Even information that may seem unrelated may be helpful. For example, tuberculosis can affect the uterus as well as the lungs.
Though laboratory tests may be done at that first visit, testing often is scheduled for later. Often, tests must be precisely timed for certain days during the woman's menstrual cycle.