Precautions for Infertility Examination

Written by Zhao Min Ying
Reproductive Medicine
Updated on March 25, 2025
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Infertility examinations primarily involve tests for both men and women. For men, the examination includes a semen analysis which requires abstinence for 2-7 days. Semen should be collected through masturbation, using a specialized semen collection cup provided by the laboratory. Ordinary condoms should not be used for semen collection. After collection, the semen must be kept warm and promptly delivered back to the laboratory. For women, the examinations include several aspects. First, during the menstrual period, blood is drawn on an empty stomach between the 2nd and 4th days to check hormone levels, and an ultrasound is used to assess the baseline state of the ovaries. Second, between the 3rd and 7th days after the menstrual period ends, when sexual intercourse is prohibited, tests are conducted to examine the uterus and fallopian tubes. These may include hysterosalpingography, hysteroscopy, or laparoscopy to evaluate the condition of the fallopian tubes. Third, monitoring ovulation with ultrasound begins from the 8th to 10th day of the menstrual cycle, tracking the development of follicles and the uterine lining until the follicle matures and ovulation occurs.

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Can acute salpingitis cause infertility?

If there is inflammation in the fallopian tubes, it can potentially lead to infertility. Inflammation causes the fallopian tubes to thicken, affecting their function. Firstly, the function of the fimbrial end of the fallopian tube is impacted, which affects the tube's ability to capture eggs. Secondly, the inflammation can affect the union of sperm and egg within the fallopian tube, making fertilization difficult. Moreover, inflammation of the fallopian tubes can also increase the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy. This happens because when the fallopian tubes are inflamed, their ability to transport the fertilized egg to the uterus is impaired, leading to ectopic pregnancies. Therefore, it is crucial for women with fallopian tube inflammation to undergo adequate anti-inflammatory treatment before trying to conceive. Commonly used medications include cephalosporins and penicillin.

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Can infertility be cured?

Infertility cannot be universally treated; it requires a specific analysis of each case. For instance, infertility caused by congenital factors, like congenital absence of testicles or uterus, is often difficult to treat. However, infertility resulting from acquired causes, such as sexual dysfunction, abnormal male semen, uterine fibroids, or ovarian cysts in females, can often be treated with medication, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies like in-vitro fertilization, and in many cases can be cured.

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What tests are done for secondary infertility?

The most common cause of secondary infertility in women is blocked fallopian tubes. In this case, a hysterosalpingography with iodine oil should be performed to understand the patency of the fallopian tubes and the specific location of the blockage, which can guide future treatment. Additionally, if a woman has abnormal vaginal discharge, a routine gynecological examination should be conducted to check for any cervical lesions. A vaginal secretion test should be performed to see if vaginal inflammation is affecting normal pregnancy. Some women experience infertility after having an abortion or induced abortion, and for these women, it's also worth considering whether uterine issues are causing secondary infertility. A hysteroscopy can be done to investigate this. When a woman experiences secondary infertility, her sexual partner or spouse should also be examined to assess sperm quality and any potential obstacles in the sperm delivery pathway.

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Written by Zhang Chun Yun
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Can infertility caused by endometriosis be cured?

When endometrial glandular and stromal tissues are found outside the uterine cavity, it is called endometriosis. The main clinical symptoms of endometriosis include lower abdominal pain, painful menstruation, and varying degrees of discomfort during sexual intercourse. Some women may also experience abnormal menstruation, such as prolonged menstrual periods, increased menstrual flow, and spotting before menstruation. For women of childbearing age, infertility is the greatest obstacle. Endometriosis should be treated under medical advice, with standardized and correct treatments, which can include surgery or medication. However, medication does not significantly help in improving pregnancy rates for infertile women, while surgical treatment can increase the pregnancy rate post-operation. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on the extent of the disease. For those hoping to conceive, postoperative medication is not advisable; instead, treatments that stimulate ovulation should be pursued to increase the chances of pregnancy as soon as possible. If pregnancy is not achieved within two years after surgery, the chances of conceiving are slim. For those who still cannot conceive after preserving fertility through surgery, assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer may be considered. It is important to follow your doctor's advice, and if you have further questions, it is recommended to consult a doctor at a hospital for more detailed advice.

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Can infertility have menstruation?

There are many causes of infertility. Normally, if a couple has been married for a year without using contraception and does not have a child, they are generally diagnosed with infertility. Infertility patients can develop from causes such as hormonal imbalances, which might lead to menstrual disorders and lack of normal ovulation, resulting in infertility. Infections like mycoplasma and chlamydia can also cause infertility, as can immune issues, abnormal ovulation, or problems with the fallopian tubes. However, infertility does not necessarily mean an absence of menstruation. Some patients may have normal menstrual cycles and ovulation. The reason for infertility in such cases might be due to blocked fallopian tubes or other hormonal issues. Therefore, whether an infertility patient has menstruation can vary; some may have a normal menstrual cycle, while others may not.