Infertility evaluation is a structured process that helps your doctor identify why you are struggling to conceive, so that the right treatment plan can be created with support from an experienced infertility specialist in Greater Kailash. Infertility is usually diagnosed when a couple has been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if the woman is over 35) without success. A thorough history, physical examination, and a panel of targeted tests for both partners are essential to pinpoint the underlying cause.
Blood tests and hormone profile
One of the first steps in diagnosing infertility is a set of blood tests, especially for the woman. These typically include measurements of hormones like FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), estradiol, prolactin, thyroid hormones, and sometimes AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) to estimate ovarian reserve. Abnormal levels can indicate problems with ovulation, diminished ovarian reserve, thyroid disorders, or high prolactin levels, all of which can interfere with conception. For men, blood tests may include hormone evaluation, such as testosterone and FSH, to assess sperm production.
In addition to hormone testing, doctors often order basic health and infection screens. These can include blood sugar, viral markers, and tests for certain reproductive tract infections that might affect fertility or pregnancy. Together, these tests help your doctor understand whether a systemic health issue is contributing to infertility and whether it needs to be corrected before attempting treatments like ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination, or IVF.
Ovulation tracking and imaging tests
Confirming whether ovulation is occurring regularly is another key part of infertility diagnosis. Your doctor may recommend mid‑luteal phase progesterone blood tests, which are typically done about a week before your expected period. Elevated progesterone levels at that time suggest that ovulation has occurred. In some cases, serial ultrasounds are used to monitor follicle growth and confirm egg release. Home ovulation kits and basal body temperature charting can support this process, but medical tests give more precise information.
Pelvic ultrasound is commonly used to visualize the uterus and ovaries. It helps detect conditions such as fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriomas (from endometriosis), or polycystic ovaries. These findings can explain irregular cycles, pain, or implantation problems. During this phase of evaluation, couples may also seek counselling regarding other reproductive health services; for instance, someone who has had an unplanned pregnancy earlier might have visited the best abortion clinic in Delhi and now wants a safe, guided plan for future conception.
Tubal patency and uterine cavity tests
For many women, checking that the fallopian tubes are open is a crucial step. A common test for this is hysterosalpingography (HSG), where a special dye is injected through the cervix and X‑ray images are taken to see whether the dye passes through the tubes. Blocked tubes can prevent sperm from reaching the egg or hinder the fertilized egg from reaching the uterus. In some cases, a saline sonography (sonohysterography) is used instead to evaluate the uterine cavity and detect polyps, adhesions, or submucosal fibroids.
Your doctor may also recommend hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a thin camera is passed through the cervix into the uterus to look directly at the lining and remove small abnormalities. Laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure using a camera through tiny abdominal incisions, can be suggested when endometriosis, pelvic adhesions, or severe tubal disease are suspected. These tests not only diagnose problems but can also allow for immediate treatment, improving the chances of future conception.
Male factor evaluation and next steps
Since male factor infertility contributes to a significant proportion of cases, semen analysis is a fundamental test. It evaluates sperm count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and other parameters like volume and liquefaction time. If abnormalities are found, further hormonal tests or scrotal ultrasound may be recommended to identify causes such as varicocele, testicular damage, or hormonal imbalance. Addressing these factors with lifestyle changes, medications, or minor procedures can substantially improve fertility outcomes.
After the complete set of tests, your doctor will explain the findings, potential causes, and tailored treatment options, which may range from lifestyle modification and timed intercourse to assisted reproductive techniques. Throughout this journey, it is important to have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare—whether that means consulting an infertility specialist, getting support for previous pregnancy terminations, or ensuring safe care at an abortion centre in Delhi if needed for medical reasons in the future.
