Most tests happen in your healthcare provider’s office. These tests may include:

• A physical exam.
• A pelvic exam.
• A pelvic ultrasound.

Other tests may need to be done in a lab. These tests can include:

• Blood tests: The type of blood test will depend on your health history and what condition your provider is testing for. Examples of blood tests include thyroid function tests, tests to check levels of hormones involved in ovulation and menstruation, and tests of ovarian reserve (egg supply). Diminished ovarian reserve is when you have fewer eggs left in your ovaries compared to others your age.
• X-ray hysterosalpingogram (HSG): Your provider injects contrast dye through your cervix and into your uterine cavity and then watches how the dye moves through your fallopian tube with an X-ray. This test checks for blockages.
• Laparoscopy: In this test, your provider inserts a small monitoring instrument called a laparoscope into your abdomen to look at the organs.
• Transvaginal ultrasound: Unlike an abdominal ultrasound (where the probe is on your belly), a transvaginal ultrasound involves your provider inserting a wand into your vagina.
• Saline sonohysterogram (SIS): This test looks at the lining of your uterus to assess for polyps, fibroids or other structural abnormalities. Your provider fills your uterus with saline, which allows them to have a better view of your uterine cavity during a transvaginal ultrasound. SIS can also sometimes be used to test if the fallopian tubes are open.
• Hysteroscopy: In this test, your provider inserts a hysteroscope (a thin device with a camera on it) into your vagina and through your cervix. This allows your provider to better see inside your uterus.

Management and Treatment

How is female infertility treated?

Once your healthcare provider diagnoses infertility and determines a cause, they’ll suggest possible treatment options. Treatment options depend on the cause. Some of the treatments are:

• Surgery: When a structural issue, blockage or scarring is the cause of infertility, your provider may be able to treat it with surgery.
• Fertility medication: Taking fertility medications can help with hormonal imbalances or ovulation disorders. Certain hormonal medications can also stimulate ovulation and help you to release an egg.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help remove an infection from your reproductive organs.
• Fertility awareness: Tracking ovulation by assessing your cervical mucus or measuring your basal body temperature are other ways your provider may assess your fertility. Many trying to conceive also use home ovulation predictor kits and smartphone apps that track their menstrual cycle to determine the best time at attempting to conceive.