If you're not having success becoming pregnant, you might seek the advice of a doctor, especially one who specializes in infertility. The doctor has many tests and procedures to evaluate any possible problems with your fertility. A hormone test can determine if you have a hormonal imbalance. A pelvic exam can ensure that you don't have an infection or abnormality. The cervix, uterus, and ovaries can be examined with either an abdominal or a trans-vaginal ultrasound. Another test is the post-coital test, where a sample of cervical fluid is scraped within a few hours of intercourse and during ovulation. Motile sperm should still be present. In an endometrial biopsy, a thin catheter is inserted through the cervix and a small piece of the uterus is removed. The sample can then be tested for infection or pre-cancerous cells. The dye test, also called a hysterosalpingogram (hist-er-uh-sal-PING-uh-gram), is done by inserting a catheter through the cervix and into the uterus while X-rays are taken. This shows the shape of the uterus as well as how the dye flows through the fallopian tubes. A laparoscopy (lah-puh-RAW-skaw-pee) is done under general anesthesia and can detect structural abnormalities and endometriosis. You might also be tested for infectious diseases, anti-sperm antibodies, or other immunities. Modern medicine has come a long way in the area of assisted reproductive technology.
