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Infertility Workup: Complete Guide to Male & Female Fertility Diagnosis

Reviewed by Dr. Manisha Acharya ,

Expert Verified

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Last updated: September 16, 2025

Synopsis

Testing for infertility is the first and most important step taken to establish why a couple is having difficulty conceiving. Diagnostic tests for infertility evaluate male and female reproductive health. These tests look into ovulation, sperm quality, hormones, and any structural issues in the reproductive system.
The growing awareness of high-quality fertility testing availability in Nepal has led to an increase in the number of couples seeking assistance. This article will walk you through the common fertility hormone testing, the whole IVF workup, and what to anticipate throughout the procedure. Early testing leads to early solution-seeking, which frequently results in better outcomes.

Introduction

An infertility workup is a set of tests designed to determine if there are any barriers preventing pregnancy. It is often a joint process for couples, and it entails tests for ovulation, hormones, sperm, and reproductive anatomy.

Testing for infertility can be stressful for the couple, but it might also yield valuable information for couples trying to conceive. Once a couple has been properly diagnosed, they can begin working towards a treatment that will result well for them, whether that be lifestyle changes or some advanced intervention such as IVF. This article will take you through each step and explain how fertility testing works.

What Is an Infertility Workup?

An infertility workup is a complete evaluation process for any couple who has been trying to have a child for more than 12 months (or 6 months in the case of the woman being over 35). There are many kinds of fertility tests, depending on your needs.

It involves a mix of:

Physical examinations
Medical history
Laboratory tests
Imaging studies

For women, this might involve fertility hormone tests, ovulation tracking, and pelvic imaging. For men, it most commonly starts with a semen analysis and moves on to further tests of the male infertility category. And ordinarily, an infertility evaluation is accomplished in a few menstrual cycles.

The ultimate objective is to locate any abnormalities that are there and chart out the best plan for treatment, whether that be timed intercourse, IUI, or IVF.

When Should You Consider Infertility Testing?

Infertility itself can be a roller coaster of emotions, but knowing when to seek help is important. Signs that one should undergo fertility tests are:

Trying to Conceive for Over 1 Year (or 6 Months if Age > 35): If one has engaged in regular unprotected intercourse for a year without conception (or for six months if one is over 35), it's time for a fertility evaluation.
Irregular or Missed Periods: This can indicate ovulation disorders or hormonal imbalances. Hormone tests for fertility help pinpoint the problems.
Recurrent Miscarriages: Having multiple pregnancy losses may suggest an abnormality in the uterus or genetic problems needing further investigation.
Known Conditions Like PCOS or Endometriosis: Common disorders, which are known to affect fertility, should be investigated early in terms of fertility.
Male Symptoms: Tests for male infertility, such as semen analysis, are advised in the case of erectile dysfunction or low libido or in someone with a history of problems with the testes.

Don't wait! Infertility tests and proper advice can really speed things up when you're trying to get pregnant.

Female Infertility Workup

Here are the most common female infertility tests:

Hormonal Blood Tests: These check levels of FSH, LH, AMH, prolactin, and TSH to evaluate ovaries and thyroid function.
Transvaginal Ultrasound: Checks the ovaries and uterus for follicular development, fibroids, or cysts.
Hysterosalpingography (HSG): It will check if the fallopian tubes are open and if the uterine cavity looks normal.
Ovulation Monitoring: Done throughout ultrasounds or by at-home LH kits to confirm egg release.
Pelvic Examination & Medical History: Helps in detecting infections, scarring and structural abnormalities.

Infertility treatments explain the finer aspects of reproductive systems in great detail. This information helps them decide how to proceed with treatment.

Male Infertility Workup

Common male infertility tests include:

Semen Analysis: Assesses the amount of semen overall, sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (shape).
Hormonal Testing: To assess sperm production, this includes checking the FSH, LH, and testosterone levels.
Scrotal Ultrasound: An ultrasound of the scrotum can identify blockages or structural problems such as varicoceles and cysts.
Genetic Testing: Advised in cases of very low sperm count or other abnormalities.
STI Screening: Infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea can affect sperm health.

When preparing for an IVF, this is where you start when deciding if there is male factor infertility.

How Long Does the Workup Take?

A complete infertility workup usually takes around 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the female partner's menstrual cycle.

Initial tests, like semen analysis or fertility hormone tests, yield results within a couple of days.
On the other hand, female infertility testing involves ultrasound scans or cycle charting for parameter specification and hence can cause some delay.
Male infertility testing is generally swift and quicker to complete.
A timely fertility testing guarantees quicker diagnosis and planning for treatment.

When preparing for an IVF, this is where you start when deciding if there is male factor infertility.

Cost of Infertility Testing in Nepal

The cost of fertility testing in Nepal depends on:

Type and number of tests recommended.
Whether it includes male, female, or couple packages.
The clinic’s pricing and facilities.

Some clinics provide bundled IVF workup packages that include testing for basic hormones for fertility, basic imaging, and semen analysis. Make sure to ask for the details of what is included before registering.

What Happens After the Workup

Once your infertility workup is complete:

Your doctor will review your results in detail.
Considerations for a treatment plan can include factors such as age, general health, diagnosis, and the number failed attempts in the past.
Treatment options include timed intercourse, IUI, IVF, surgical correction, or lifestyle changes.

Sometimes, just finding out the cause could help couples take the right steps to conceive naturally, but in other cases, timely medical intervention improves outcomes.

Conclusion

infertility workup is not, however, just tests - it’s the doorway to answers, comprehension and optimism. For couples struggling with the stress of failed attempts at conception, it’s the best shot for determining what is happening and then doing something about it. Whether you are looking for male infertility tests, female infertility tests, or both, early preparation is key.

Indira IVF couples get a high level of fertility testing care at a cost they can afford and in an emotionally supportive environment. With advanced diagnostics, trained fertility specialists, and personalised care, Indira IVF helps you take that first step towards parenthood with confidence.