testing & diagnosis

If you and your partner are experiencing problems conceiving, you may be considering seeking medical help. The age and cycle pattern of the female partner, and the length of time you have being trying for a child are important factors that play a role in deciding when it is appropriate to consider fertility testing.

In this section, you can find out more about the male and female fertility tests involved in diagnosing the causes of reduced fertility. This knowledge - knowing what to expect - can help you be better prepared to seek medical help.

After both partners have completed fertility tests, your doctor will usually be able to explain why as a couple you have not become pregnant. Unfortunately, however, it is not always possible to determine an exact cause for reduced fertility. If the cause still remains unclear after the testing phase, doctors normally describe this as unexplained subfertility. Fortunately, there are also a number of possible treatments that can help couples in this situation become pregnant.

Hearing a concrete diagnosis can offer peace of mind. Some couples are relieved to finally get an answer to the question that has worried them for so long. Others will be equally anxious and concerned about what lies ahead. More often than not though, a diagnosis and subsequent treatment is successful: two-thirds of couples conceive with fertility treatment.

In this section, you will find more information about signs and symptoms, diagnoses and possible treatments. By learning as much as possible about these aspects together as a couple you may feel better able to retain control over your dream of having a child.