Fertility Evaluations

Fertility Evaluations
The first step toward that dream is a new patient appointment with Henry Fertility. A thorough review of your medical history and records, including surgeries, will be completed with care and concern and then recommendations for testing appropriate to your situation will be made. You may have had some fertility related testing in the past, so please bring your records with you to your visit. We think it is very important to look at each test and piece of information as pieces to a puzzle. Together they create a picture that leads us to a solution that fits each couple individually.
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Female Factor Fertility Evaluation
The goal of your fertility evaluation is to identify a specific cause or causes of infertility, and to then recommend appropriate targeted treatments. The evaluation process may include a pelvic ultrasound, blood work, HSG/Hysterosalpingogram and / or a Sonohysterogram (SIS).  Dr. Henry and our nurses will work closely with you to provide a comprehensive evaluation and treatment tailored to your particular situation.  As you start your infertility treatment, please know our fertility specialists are in partnership with you throughout your care and realize the importance of listening to your thoughts, questions and concerns.
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HSG – Hysterosalpingogram
Having a blocked fallopian tube or a growth in your uterus can reduce your chances of pregnancy.  If your fallopian tubes are blocked, the sperm can’t reach the egg.  An HSG is a test that uses x-ray and a special dye to detect scar tissue, polyps, fibroids, and other growths that may be blocking your tubes or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting properly in your uterus.  During the test, which takes place in the Radiology Department, you will lay on the x-ray table, a speculum will be inserted vaginally, and a catheter is placed in your cervix and contrast material is instilled.

SIS – Sonohysterogram
This is a diagnostic screening study which combines transvaginal ultrasound with the infusion of a small amount of sterile saline solution into the uterus to visualize the endometrial cavity (inside the uterus).  Sonohysterography may be used whenever we need to see the inside of the uterus.  Postmenopausal or irregular vaginal bleeding, uterine fibroids, an enlarged uterus, infertility, recurrent miscarriage and screening for IVF are all potential indications for an SIS.  It is different from the HSG in that it is done in the physician’s office and cannot be used to detect blocked fallopian tubes.

Male Factor Infertility
While the majority of attention is related to the diagnosis and treatment of infertility directed toward women, approximately 50% of all cases of infertility are due to abnormalities in sperm production or function. Male infertility can be related to a couple of causes:  healthy sperm may not be produced; sperm may not be able to travel through the reproductive system; the sperm count may be low or the sperm may not function properly. For men, a semen analysis is the first test recommended.  Our lab technicians will check the sample for sperm count and motility that may be causing infertility. Blood work may follow, and in some cases, a more advanced male evaluation with a urologist may be recommended. We may refer you to a male infertility specialist.