Infertility is defined medically as the inability to achieve conception after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse (or after 6 months for women over 35). Seeking early evaluation provides couples with clear clinical answers, reducing emotional stress and paving a structured path toward successful parenthood.

Understanding the Infertility Workup

Successful conception relies on several synchronized biological factors: healthy egg production, unimpeded fallopian tubes, normal uterine anatomy, adequate sperm parameters, and hormonal harmony. An infertility evaluation systematically investigates both partners to pinpoint any underlying barriers.

Step-by-Step Diagnostic Steps

1. Female Hormonal Evaluation & Ovarian Reserve Testing

Blood tests conducted early in the menstrual cycle (Days 2 to 4) measure Key Hormones:

• AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Reflects the quantitative ovarian egg reserve.
• FSH & LH: Pituitary hormones governing follicular growth and ovulation.
• Thyroid (TSH) & Prolactin: Endocrine imbalances that can disrupt normal ovulation cycles.

2. Pelvic Ultrasound & Follicular Tracking

Transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) evaluates the uterus for fibroids or adenomyosis, inspects the ovaries for polycystic morphology, and calculates the Antral Follicle Count (AFC). Serial follicular monitoring tracks dominant follicle growth and confirms egg release.

3. Tubal Patency Testing (HSG / SSG)

Fallopian tube blockages prevent the egg and sperm from meeting. A Hysterosalpingography (HSG) radio-opaque X-ray study or Sonosalpingography (SSG) ultrasound confirms whether the fallopian tubes are open and patent.

4. Male Fertility Evaluation (Semen Analysis)

Male factors account for approximately 40% of infertility cases. A standardized semen analysis evaluates sperm count (concentration), motility (movement), and morphology (structure) according to WHO guidelines.

First-Line Reproductive Treatments

• Ovulation Induction: Oral medications (Clomiphene Citrate or Letrozole) to stimulate follicular maturation in women with irregular cycles or PCOS.
• Timed Intercourse (TI): Pairing ovulation tracking with timed natural attempt windows.
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Processed, highly motile sperm placed directly into the uterine cavity around ovulation time.

Compassionate Fertility Care in Matunga

Dr. Ankita Rajesh Shah completed fellowship specialization in Reproductive Medicine (ICOG). At Vitality Healthcare, Matunga East, we offer personalized, evidence-based fertility evaluation tailored to each couple's unique clinical background.