Infertility and Endocrine Testing

Programs at the Loma Linda University Center for Fertility and In Vitro Fertilization are designed to involve both partners in a complete evaluation. In some cases, an early diagnosis with one partner may influence the sequence of testing for the other. The Center completes the testing phase as quickly as possible; however, testing depends on the timing of the woman's cycle. Once a diagnosis has been made, a variety of appropriate treatments may be recommended to help the couple achieve pregnancy.

In order for a woman to conceive, the egg must not only be released from the ovary, but must do so at the appropriate time. A problem in the ovulatory process can lead to infertility or early pregnancy loss. Testing determines if the woman has a regular ovulatory pattern. If not, her cycle can be medically regulated.

Tubal or peritoneal factor

Diagnostic testing also includes procedures to determine if the fallopian tubes are open and correctly positioned to allow a meeting of the sperm and egg. If testing reveals a tubal problem, the recommended corrective procedures may include microsurgery endoscopic surgery, laser surgery, or in vitro fertilization.

Testing can determine if the woman provides a cervical environment receptive to her partner's sperm. This environment may provide inadequate cervical mucus, contain a scarred cervix or even produce antibodies hostile to the sperm. Treatment options include medication and intrauterine insemination.

The woman may have uterine factor problems which include irregularities of the uterus, such as scar tissue or developmental abnormalities. If the problem involves a uterine factor, hysteroscopy or surgical repair may be recommended.

Endometriosis can play a significant role in female infetility. Endometriosis is defined as uterine endometrial tissues growing outside the uterus on other pelvic organs such as the bladder and ovaries, etc. The exact cause of endometriosis is not known and diagnosis without laparoscopy is sometimes difficult since a third of the patients show no acute symptoms. The only way to accurately diagnose endometriosis is to view the pelvic area through a laparoscope. Treatment depends upon the severity of the disease. The two most common treatments include medication and removal or destruction of endometrial implants.

This is explained in detail in the male factor evaluation section