The specialist reviews your medical history and previous fertility reports and speaks to you regarding your expectations of this visit. For couples who are seeking assisted reproductive treatment, the specialist would first conduct a comprehensive fertility assessment on you and your spouse. These assessments help the specialist to identify a diagnosis and to suggest the most effective intervention or treatment for you. This may include:
- Blood tests
The mandatory blood tests done on patients seeking to undergo therapeutic procedures are for infectious diseases such as Hep B, Hep C, HIV and so on. If necessary, a full blood count test is performed. The clinician may also request for blood tests to measure a range of hormones such as AMH, P4, E2, FSH and etc.
- Abdominal Scan & Pelvic Ultrasound Scan
The wife undergoes an ultrasound imaging on her lower abdomen to give a structural view of the reproductive organs. A transvaginal ultrasound is also performed to observe the uterine lining and ovaries. This is done to assess the number of potential eggs and to identify other intrauterine factors (uterine scarring/the presence of fibroids). Depending on your condition, a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) to evaluate your fallopian tubes may be required.
- Semen Analysis
The husband produces a sample for semen analysis. The analysis helps to ascertain the health of the sperm by determining the count, motility, shape and viability of the sperm, among other parameters. The husband is advised to abstain from semen emission for three to five days before the appointment. The semen analysis report is released the day after.
The first consultation typically lasts for 30 minutes or more depending on the complexity. Take this opportunity to ask questions and discuss at length with our specialist. It is important to understand the implications, success rates, benefits and risks involved when choosing a particular treatment.