12.The condition of the uterus and fallopian tubes - Infertility Niche Business

As a woman you undoubtedly will go through a test with an excruciatingly long name -- hysterosalpingography. This particular exam evaluates the condition of both your uterus and your fallopian tubes. In this exam, fluid is injected into your uterus, an x-ray is then taken to determine whether the fluid actually travels out of your uterus and into your fallopian tubes, the natural path the egg and sperm must travel.

If the fluid doesn’t travel down this "path" it could signal a blockage or related problems. Sometimes, if this is determined to be the cause of your infertility, this blockage can be easily corrected with a simply surgery.

Another test, a bit more invasive and requiring a general anesthesia, is a laparoscopy. In this, a thin viewing device is inserted into your abdomen and pelvis for the purpose of examining your fallopian tubes, ovaries as well as uterus.

A small incision, usually eight to 10 mm in length is made right beneath your navel. A needle is then inserted into your abdominal cavity. The attendant then injects a small amount of gas -- usually in the form of carbon dioxide into the cavity which creates space for the entry of the laparoscope.

This is an illuminated, fiber-optic telescope which can detect such problems as blockages or irregularities in both the uterus and the fallopian tubes.

One of the most common problems this test picks up is the presence of endometriosis and scarring. More of often than not this test requires outpatient status.

Women, like their partners, also undergo hormonal testing. Used as a tool to check levels of hormones basic to ovulation, the tests also cover the thyroid and pituitary hormones.

A test that actually reviews the potential effectiveness of the eggs after ovulation, the ovarian reserve test, often includes a hormone test at the initial stages of your menstrual cycle.

Genetic testing may also occur simply to determine if there's a genetic defect presence that could be at the cause of your infertility. And finally, most women also endure a pelvic ultrasound. This particular procedure specifically looks for diseases in either the uterine or fallopian tubes.

Now before you start running in the other direction from the doctor, take solace in knowing that you may not be required to undergo all of these tests. It may be that the first test you take reveals the nature of your infertility.

The exact tests you actually take, as well as their specific order, depend on the various discussions you and your physician have as well as the agreement the two of you have made.

These tests also tell the doctor what kind of treatment would be best for your particular problems. Those tests form the basis of an entire chapter later in the book.

In the meantime, your mind is probably swirling in a hundred different directions -- many of which are wondering if there were anything else you can do.