Fertility Tests

Investigations — What To Expect

The Investigation Plan — Thorough From The Start

A Fertility Evaluation Is Not A Single Test. It Is A Systematic, Structured Process Of Investigation That Gathers Information About Both Partners To Identify The Specific Causes Of Their Difficulty Conceiving. At Dr. Krishnakumar’s Clinic, The Investigation Plan Is Designed To Be Comprehensive, Efficient, And Respectful Of The Couple’s Time And Resources. The Goal Is A Clear Diagnosis – Not A List Of Inconclusive Results And Vague Suggestions – Within The Minimum Number Of Tests Required To Answer The Clinical Question.

All Investigations Are Explained To The Couple In Advance: What The Test Involves, What It Measures, How The Result Will Inform The Treatment Plan, And What The Result Might Or Might Not Mean. Every Investigation That Is Requested Has A Specific Clinical Reason That The Couple Can Understand.

Initial Investigations For Women

Hormonal Panel – Blood Tests

FSH and LH are tested on Day 2 or 3 of the cycle. AMH provides a reliable measure of the remaining egg supply – the most clinically important single test. Prolactin and TSH are also measured to assess ovulation and thyroid function.

Pelvic Ultrasound (Transvaginal)

Provides a direct view of the uterus and ovaries. The Antral Follicle Count (AFC) is the most practical measure of ovarian reserve. Assesses structure for fibroids, polyps, cysts, and measures endometrial thickness.

Hysterosalpingography (HSG)

An X-Ray procedure using radio-opaque dye to identify blockages or abnormalities in the fallopian tubes or uterine cavity. A critical assessment when tubal factor is suspected.

Diagnostic Hysteroscopy

Direct visualisation of the uterine cavity. Recommended for all new IVF patients to identify correctable pathology. Having performed 75,000+ procedures, this is a core strength of the clinic.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy

Keyhole surgery allowing direct visual inspection of the pelvis. It is the only way to diagnose endometriosis definitively and allows assessment of tubal function through a laparoscopic dye test.

Initial Investigations For Men

Primary Assessment

Semen Analysis

The Primary Investigation For Male Fertility. It Reports On Sperm Concentration, Total Count, Motility, Morphology, Volume, Ph, And White Blood Cell Count. This fundamental test provides the initial clinical baseline for all subsequent male-factor diagnostic decisions.

Structural & Endocrine

Hormonal Profile & Ultrasound

For Men With Severely Abnormal Parameters, A Hormonal Profile Is Measured to assess the endocrine environment. Scrotal Ultrasound Assesses For Varicocele Or Structural Abnormalities, identifying correctable physical causes of infertility.

Advanced Diagnostics

Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index

Evaluates The Integrity Of Genetic Material Within The Sperm. Relevant For Unexplained Infertility Or Previous Failed IVF Cycles, this test looks beyond simple counts to ensure the quality of the genetic cargo being delivered to the egg.

Comprehensive Screening

Genetic Testing

For Counts Below 5 Million/Ml, Karyotype And Y-Chromosome Microdeletion Testing Identify Genetic Abnormalities. These detailed screenings are critical for long-term treatment planning and understanding the hereditary implications of treatment.

Putting It All Together — The Diagnostic Consultation

Once All Investigations Are Complete, Dr. Krishnakumar Schedules A Comprehensive Diagnostic Consultation With Both Partners. Every Test Result Is Reviewed And Explained. The Couple Receives A Clear Summary Of What Has Been Found, What It Means, And What Treatment Options Are Available.

The Time Allocation For This Consultation Is A Minimum Of Forty-Five Minutes. Questions Are Welcomed – Every Question, However Simple Or However Complex. The Aim Is That The Couple Leaves This Consultation Fully Informed, Without Any Uncertainty About Their Diagnosis Or Their Options, And With A Clear, Honest Picture Of The Path Forward.

– Dr. S. Krishnakumar

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