Healthy Inspirations
Infertility Examination Panel
Wed, 21 Jun 2023The series of infertility examinations is aimed at determining the cause or the absence of pregnancy in a husband and wife who have been actively trying to conceive for 1 year without the use of contraception. The purpose is to detect any abnormalities in either the husband or wife, in order to provide appropriate treatment.
The available infertility examination panel includes:
- Health History Anamnesis
This examination aims to gather information about the previous health problems experienced by both the husband and wife. It includes past treatments or regular medical care, current or previous medication use, history of significant trauma or injuries, family history of potential genetic diseases, menstrual history of the wife, and the husband's history of first ejaculation (semenarche). It also assesses habits that may contribute to infertility risks, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and underweight conditions.
- Physical Examination
A physical examination involves measuring height, weight to assess nutritional status, blood pressure measurement, and a comprehensive head-to-toe examination.
- Sperm Analysis Examination
This examination aims to evaluate any abnormalities in sperm cells that may affect the fertilization process. It assesses the quantity, shape, and motility of sperm cells.
- Hormonal Examination
Hormonal examinations are conducted to assess any hormonal disorders that may affect the reproductive system. For men, testosterone levels are assessed to evaluate any abnormalities that may affect the production of normal sperm cells. In women, Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) levels can be examined to assess the quantity of viable eggs and to diagnose conditions such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).
- Radiological Examination
Radiological examinations may include testicular ultrasonography (USG) for men, aiming to identify any anatomical issues that may affect sperm production. Another radiological examination, called Hysterosalpingography (HSG), can be performed on women to assess the uterus and fallopian tubes for any anatomical abnormalities that may hinder the union of eggs and sperm during fertilization.
This diverse range of infertility examination panels aims to assess whether the absence of pregnancy is due to a serious problem or if it can be easily treated. Identifying the primary obstacles to conception will aid in providing appropriate treatment, making it easier for the couple to achieve their long-awaited goal of having a child.
Author: Dr. Anisa Faradila (Medical Laboratory Consultant at PRAMITA Clinic, Jl. Cik Ditiro No. 17, Yogyakarta)