Female Fertility Tests & Treatments

We offer comprehensive evaluation and treatments for fertility challenges. Our experts in obstetrics and gynecology, reproductive endocrinology and fertility will partner with you to determine the best path to meet your needs.

Note: Appointments may require a referral from your primary care physician or OB/GYN.

We usually start by talking to you about your medical history and any relevant lifestyle factors. This can include menstruation, pregnancy, surgical history, birth control use, current sexual patterns, medications, other health problems, and your work environment.

Your doctor will also want to review your male partner's medical history. The single most important test of male fertility is the semen analysis, which assesses sperm count, the ability of the sperm to swim (motility) and the total semen volume.

If any significant abnormalities are discovered, a consultation with a urologist may be recommended.

Conditions that Affect Female Fertility

Infertility may result from one or multiple causes. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Ovulation disorders, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
  • Damaged or blocked fallopian tubes
  • Endometriosis
  • Uterine problems, such as fibroids
  • Multiple miscarriages
  • Age (the number of healthy eggs a woman has decreases with age)
  • Smoking (it can also reduce the number of eggs a woman has)

Diagnostic Tests

Next, an ultrasound is usually performed to examine your uterus and ovaries. Other tests may be needed such as hormone testing and a more thorough evaluation of your reproductive organs through a hysterosalpingogram (HSG).

Fertility Treatments

Our team works closely with each couple to develop treatment protocols that are carefully individualized for you. These can include:

  • Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
  • Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) — an oral medication that can help with ovulation by acting on the pituitary gland.
  • Gonadotropin injections — an injected medication that can stimulate ovulation

Surgery

Reproductive surgery is sometimes performed if there is a structural problem associated with a man or woman's infertility.

The vast majority of surgical procedures for women can now be performed on an outpatient basis, using either a laparoscope inserted through a small incision in the navel or a hysteroscope inserted through the vagina.

Surgery can also be done to remove scar tissue from inside the uterus (known as Asherman's syndrome), treat endometriosis, remove cysts from the ovaries, and remove fibroids or polyps.

IVF and Other Assisted Reproductive Technology

We collaborate with Reproductive Partners Fertility Center–San Diego to offer advanced assisted reproductive technology (ART) services, including:

The experts at Reproductive Partners Fertility Center are strong advocates for reducing the risk of miscarriage, multiple pregnancies and health complications for mother and child. These efforts include:

  • Optimizing the single embryo transfer process, which helps women avoid the risks associated with carrying multiple babies
  • Preimplantation genetic screening (PGS), to reduce the chance of having a baby with abnormal chromosomes
  • Egg vitrification, also known as "rapid freezing," the most successful egg freezing technique available

Reproductive Partners Fertility Center–San Diego's success rates are higher than the national average, and it has been recognized by the Society of Assisted Reproductive Technology for achieving these results with fewer embryos transferred.

Counseling and Support

Because infertility can have far-reaching emotional impacts, UC San Diego Health also offers group and couples counseling.

More About Counseling Services

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