Difficulties in getting pregnant can have many causes. Discovering the underlying cause is usually the first step in solving the problem. In Gyncare Center for Assisted Reproduction, we therefore pay special attention to comprehensive diagnostics.
When looking for the cause, we also pay attention to immunology, genetics, sexology, and last but not least, psychology as well. Of course, it is not always necessary to undergo all the tests and assessments. Thanks to many years of experience, our experts will often be able to find out the cause of your problem at the very beginning of the whole process.
What the doctor wants to know:
After the basic diagnostic procedures, the doctor should know the answer to the following basic questions:
- Does the female partner ovulate?
- Does she have a sufficient ovarian reserve (supply of eggs in her ovaries)?
- Does she have patent (unblocked) fallopian tubes?
- Does she have adequate thyroid function and prolactin and insulin production?
- Do the semen analysis parameters of the male partner meet the conditions sufficient to ensure a spontaneous pregnancy?
- Does the female suffer from endometriosis?
Typically, the diagnostic process advances further only after answering these basic questions identifying the most common causes of infertility. However, if experts “find nothing” in these examinations, they look further. In the next round, they explore the immunology, genetics, sexology, and andrology factors.
Initial assessment of the couple:
The postcoital test examines the mucus sample collected from the cervix a few hours after an unprotected sexual intercourse. It is performed during ovulation, when the mucus has optimal properties for sperm penetration. The mucus is microscopically examined immediately after sample collection.
What is assessed:
- Sperm count
- Sperm motility and quality of sperm movement
The results indicate the ability of sperms to penetrate the cervical mucus and survive in this environment. A high percentage of immotile sperm may be caused by the presence of sperm antibodies which cause sperm clustering or prevent motility. The clusters are alive but prevent sperm motility and thus block the ability of sperms to fertilize the egg. It is recommended to observe 3 days of sexual abstinence before the planned test in order to ensure optimal sperm quality. The postcoital test is a simple, fast, painless and inexpensive examination, which enables you to find out if you have a real chance of getting pregnant naturally.
