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basal fertility testing

The first step for many couples is a visit to their general practitioner. Sometimes the doctor may just provide information and advice. In other cases, they may recommend some form of examination. As a basic principle, your own feelings and wishes will be taken into account. Fortunately, initial fertility tests are relatively simple. In some cases, the first visit to a doctor may even result in a provisional diagnosis. However, if your doctor is unable to determine the cause of your infertility from the first round of tests, he or she will have to carry out more exhaustive tests before a diagnosis can be made. These further tests are different for women and for men and often require a more detailed consultation.

The first tests can differ to a certain extent per person, but the following three basic components are nearly always present:

  • Determining ovulation has occurred.
  • Testing the sperm.
  • Documenting the reproductive anatomy - can the ovum encounter the sperm and be fertilised?

Information about what you can expect during a first visit can make this experience a little easier. In broad terms, the fertility test will be the same everywhere; however there can be differences between the testing methods per clinic and per doctor. This section contains an overview of the usual tests that you and your partner will have to deal with during infertility treatment.

basal fertility test

At the first visit to your general practitioner or fertility specialist, you will usually be given an explanation of the procedure to be followed initially. You and your partner will be asked a great many questions (medical history). As a general rule, a further appointment will be made to carry out the first tests, although it is possible that initial testing may sometimes be carried out there and then. It may be the case that the general practitioner refers you to a gynaecologist or fertility clinic for testing.

Although the tests can differ from clinic to clinic and specialist to specialist, it generally comprises the following investigations:

  • Questions for the woman
  • Questions for the man
  • Physical examination
  • A blood test
  • Cycle assessment
  • Routine semen test (semen analysis)
  • Post-coital test (PCT)

Besides this basal test, the possibility of additional tests may be discussed for both the man and the woman.