Female Investigations
FEMALE INVESTIGATIONS
Laparoscopy
During a laparoscopy, a small telescope (laparoscope) is inserted into the abdomen to look directly at the internal tissue to diagnose the presence pelvic pathology eg endometriosis. This test is conducted under a general anaesthetic.
Ovarian Reserve Test
This detailed scan is performed to look at the size, shape and condition of the uterus, lining of the womb, both ovaries and the pelvic area. An antral follicle count (also known as an egg sac count) is also performed. An Ovarian Reserve Test (ORT) is a scan carried out between days 1 and days 5 of the menstrual cycle. This scan is best performed transvaginally for optimum clarity.
Fallopian Tubes
HyCoSy Scan
A HyCoSy fertility scan is a quick procedure that is used to determine whether the fallopian tubes are blocked or damaged and is performed between days 7-12 of the menstrual cycle.
Uterus
3D SIS
A 3D SIS (saline infusion sonography) is an ultrasound procedure performed to assess the the uterine cavity is normal. It involves passing a catheter through the neck of the womb followed by filling the womb with sterile water 3-dimensional images of the uterine cavity are then taken and assessed. This investigation is usually carried out after menstruation has ended but before ovulation between days 7-12 of the menstrual cycle.
Dummy Embryo Transfer
This is a procedure which emulates the process of embryo transfer and helps to establish whether an actual transfer is likely to encounter problems. Performed between days 7-12 of the menstrual cycle.
Endometrial Biopsy
This investigation involves the removal of a tiny piece of tissue from the inner lining of the uterus. Performed between days 7-12 of the menstrual cycle.
Hysteroscopy
This investigation involves placing a narrow telescope with a camera into the womb and is used to examine the lining of the womb and the opening of the fallopian tubes, to determine whether there are any polyps, fibroids or adhesions present.
Endometrial Receptivity Array Test
An ERA test involves taking a biopsy of the womb-lining and analysing the tissue to find out when the endometrium is most receptive to implantation
Hormonal
This is a female screening package which forms part of a basic fertility workup. These tests are best performed between days 1 and 5 of the menstrual cycle.
• FSH
• LH
• E2
• AMH
• Prolactin
