Sutter Gould Infertility Diagnosis and Testing

The wait to get pregnant can seem endless – or even frightening if you’ve been trying to conceive for months without any luck. Could infertility be the problem?

In the Sutter Health network, we use the latest tests and equipment to diagnose or rule out any medical reasons leading to fertility issues. If you’re younger than 35 and have not become pregnant after a year of unprotected intercourse (or six months for women 35 and older), you’re a good candidate for an assessment by a reproductive endocrinologist – a doctor with special training and expertise in fertility issues. Our services include:

Ovarian Reserve Testing

Ovarian reserve tests measure certain hormones and evaluate the number of follicles in the ovaries. These tests especially apply to women over age 35, since the ovarian reserve (number of viable eggs) decreases with age.

Imaging

Ultrasounds and X-rays can provide a detailed, inside look at the reproductive organs to detect any problems. One type of ultrasound exam called a sonohysterogram (SHG) uses saline injected into the uterus to view the uterine cavity to check for any abnormality that could interfere with fertility. Another pelvic ultrasound called a sonogram provides views of a woman's uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and cervix. An X-ray procedure called a hysterosalpingogram (HSG) can reveal blockages or other problems in the fallopian tubes.

Male Fertility Tests

Male fertility issues contribute to nearly 40 percent of infertility cases. A semen analysis measures the quality and quantity of sperm. An ultrasound also can be used to locate problems with the ducts or tubes through which semen flows, or the scrotum – all of which may contribute to infertility.

Genetic Screening Tests

We sometimes order screening tests to rule out genetic factors that may impact your fertility. Our specially trained genetic counselors review your family health history and determine which tests, if any, might be helpful.