Making the Diagnosis
There are dozens of possible tests for both men and women. The basis
of diagnosis in men is the sperm count. With this test, the man provides a sample
of ejaculate. The individual sperm can be studied under the microscope and with
various chemical tests can see how many sperm are alive, how many can swim,
and how good they are at penetrating an egg wall. Hamster eggs are used for
this last test.
In women, the first thing to check is the level of various hormones. These
provide clues not only to the cause of infertility, but also to the chances
of successfully treating it. An ultrasound is often ordered to look for fibroids,
masses on the ovary or other abnormalities. An X-ray is also done in which dye
is inserted into the cervix to see if the fallopian tubes are open. Other tests
include a laparoscopy or hysteroscopy, in which a camera-bearing
tube is inserted into the uterus and the tubes to look for endometriosis, blockage,
and other signs of damage.