Infertility Investigations and treatments.pmd

Leaflet No. 6501007
07/07
If you have any questions,
please contact Sr. Helen Butt
or any of the nurses on Jasmine Ward.
01935 384301 (Direct line)
Infertility Investigations
and Treatments
Department of Gynaecology

Glossary
Andrologist A specialist in andrology.
Andrology Study of the male reproductive system and
hormones.
Anovulation No ovulation - eggs not produced.
Clomiphene Tablets to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs.
Fertilisation The process of a sperm and egg combining
which can result in a pregnancy.
GnH Gonadotrophin-injection (hormonal) stimulation of
the ovaries to produce eggs.
Hystero-salpingogram An X-ray which shows the flow of a radioopaque
liquid through the uterus and Fallopian
tubes.
IUI Intra-uterine insemination - artificial transfer of
good quality sperm into the uterus via a fine
tube passed through the cervix.
IVF In vitro fertilisation - “Test Tube Baby”. Sperm
and eggs are collected separately and mixed
together in the laboratory. When the egg(s) is
fertilised, it is introduced into the uterus.
(NOT AVAILABLE AT YEOVIL)
Laparoscopy Procedure of viewing the abdominal and pelvic
organs by passing a fine telescope into the
abdomen through a tiny incision under general
anaesthetic.
Ovulation The process of releasing the egg from the ovary.
Ovulation Induction The process of stimulating the ovaries with drugs
to produce and release the eggs.
Ultrasonographer The person trained to do the scans.
Ultrasonography Scans using ultrasound.
Infertility Investigations and Treatments
This booklet tells you about the aims and objectives of the Infertility Clinic
and the work undertaken for couples who are experiencing difficulty in
conceiving.
One in six couples seek specialist help and advice concerning fertility.
Some couples are trying for a subsequent addition to their family. We
recognise that infertility has a profound emotional effect, as well as being a
physical problem. We hope the clinic at Yeovil will meet both the physical
and emotional needs of the couple seen. As you attend the clinic, you will
be encouraged to ask questions and explore your feelings.
The Clinic
We have an established weekly clinic. Each couple are allocated a 15-30
minute appointment. This allows enough time for you to feel relaxed, to be
able to express your views and feelings and for the infertility team to
assess and recommend the investigations and treatment appropriate for
you. The clinic provides a high standard of professional expertise
combined with individual and sympathetic patient care.
Facilities Available
1. Assessment of male and female causes of infertility.
Andrology
Laparoscopy/hysteroscopy
Biochemical tests
Ultrasonography
2. Ovulation induction
Tablets
Injections
3. Intra-uterine insemination (IUI)
With partner’s sperm
4. Male referral
Patients may be referred to the Consultant
Urologist/Andrologist

At the clinic
First appointment (30 mins)
This appointment is used to explain the structure and aims of the clinic, to
assess the medical background which may affect reproduction and to examine
both partners. Some information may be available from tests organised by
your GP and, where necessary, further tests will be arranged.
The tests
Many of the following tests will be carried out during fertility assessment.
This section lists all the tests with a short explanation of what they are and
what they mean.
• Semen Analysis
The male partner will be asked to produce a semen sample at home. A
specimen container will be provided.
Repeat samples may be required at 2-3 week intervals and perhaps after
10 weeks.
These samples are checked for potential sperm problems.
• Hormone Analysis
Blood tests may be carried out to check that ovulation occurs satisfactorily.
• Tests for Tubal Patency
This is a test to check that the Fallopian Tubes are not blocked. This test
may be undertaken by a laparoscopy or a hystero-salpingogram (a
specialised X-ray).
• General Health Test
A range of tests will also be carried out including Rubella (German
Measles) immunity. All women are advised to start taking folic acid
supplements. Advice is also given to both you and your partner about
drinking and smoking. Smoking has a detrimental effect on fertility and
you are advised to give up smoking.
Subsequent appointment (15 mins)
When all the results of the tests are available, you will be seen to
discuss a plan of treatment based on your individual requirements.
There will be an opportunity for you to put forward your views and ask
questions.
Treatments could fall into one or more of the following:
• Ovulation Induction
Tablets - 6 - 12 months
Injections with monitoring - 3 cycles maximum
• IUI
3 cycles maximum with tablets and/or injections
• Tubal problems
If appropriate, surgery may be offered
• Sperm problems
IUI and/or referral to the Consultant Urologist or advice on referral to
another unit for other forms of treatment.
Other treatment options (like IVF, ICSI etc) not available in this hospital but
available in other centres, could be discussed.