Fertility Evaluation in South Charleston, WV
Trying to conceive without success can be one of the most frustrating and emotionally challenging experiences a couple faces. If you are having difficulty getting pregnant, the team at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc in South Charleston, WV is here to help. Board-certified OB/GYN Kiran Patel, MD, board-certified family medicine physician Leela Patel, MD, and their experienced team offer comprehensive fertility evaluations to identify the cause of your difficulties and guide you toward the best path forward.
You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Call (304) 766-4300 today to learn more or schedule a consultation using our online booking tool.
What Is a Fertility Evaluation?
A fertility evaluation is a series of diagnostic tests designed to identify any underlying factors that may be affecting your ability to conceive. The results help your provider at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc develop an informed, personalized approach to supporting your fertility.
When you should seek a fertility evaluation depends on your age:
- Under 35: If you have been trying to conceive for 12 months or more without success, a fertility evaluation is recommended
- Ages 35–40: A fertility evaluation is advised after six months of trying without conceiving
- Over 40: A fertility evaluation should be scheduled as soon as possible, as fertility declines more rapidly at this age
What Is Involved in a Fertility Evaluation?
At Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc, your fertility evaluation consists of a thorough series of tests to assess your reproductive health from multiple angles.
Blood and Urine Tests
A urine test is a straightforward way to assess whether you are ovulating — producing and releasing mature eggs. Blood tests measure progesterone levels, evaluate your egg supply (ovarian reserve), and can detect conditions that affect fertility such as elevated prolactin levels and thyroid disease.
Ultrasound
In-office ultrasound allows your provider to monitor follicle development and predict ovulation. Sonohysterography, a specialized form of ultrasound, can detect scarring, polyps, fibroids, or other structural abnormalities within the uterus that may be affecting your ability to conceive.
Hysterosalpingography
Hysterosalpingography is a specialized X-ray procedure used to examine the interior of the uterus and identify any blockages or abnormalities in the fallopian tubes — one of the most common structural causes of female infertility.
Hysteroscopy
A hysteroscope is a thin, flexible instrument equipped with a camera and light. Your provider gently inserts it through the vagina and cervix to directly examine the inside of the uterus, allowing for a highly detailed evaluation of the uterine cavity.
Laparoscopy
Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a small camera is inserted through a tiny abdominal incision to examine the outside of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic adhesions that may not be visible through other imaging methods.
What Happens After My Fertility Evaluation?
If your provider at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc identifies any issues during your fertility evaluation, they will discuss the findings with you in detail and recommend the most appropriate treatment options for your individual situation. In some cases, no specific cause is found — this is not uncommon and does not mean conception is impossible.
When no underlying condition is detected, lifestyle and behavioral factors may be contributing to your difficulties, including high stress levels, poor nutrition, irregular sleep, or unhealthy habits. Your provider will help you address these factors to improve your chances of conceiving naturally.
It is also important to consider your partner’s fertility. Male factor infertility accounts for a significant portion of conception difficulties, and male partners should undergo evaluation of their reproductive health and sperm quality alongside your own assessment.
To arrange a fertility evaluation at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc in South Charleston, WV , call (304) 766-4300 or book an appointment online today.
Frequently Asked Questions – Fertility Evaluation in South Charleston, WV
When should I see a doctor about fertility concerns?
If you are under 35 and have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, it is time to schedule a fertility evaluation. Women between 35 and 40 should seek an evaluation after six months, and women over 40 should arrange one as soon as possible. Call (304) 766-4300 to schedule a fertility evaluation at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc in South Charleston, WV .
What does a fertility evaluation test for?
A fertility evaluation at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc tests for a range of factors that can affect your ability to conceive, including ovulation function, hormone levels (progesterone, prolactin, thyroid), ovarian reserve, and structural issues with the uterus and fallopian tubes such as blockages, fibroids, polyps, or endometriosis.
Is a fertility evaluation painful?
Most components of a fertility evaluation — such as blood and urine tests and ultrasound — are non-invasive and painless. Procedures such as hysteroscopy or hysterosalpingography may cause mild discomfort or cramping. Your provider at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc will explain what to expect before each step and ensure you are as comfortable as possible throughout.
What causes female infertility?
Female infertility can have many causes, including ovulation disorders, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, uterine abnormalities such as fibroids or polyps, endometriosis, hormonal imbalances, thyroid conditions, and age-related decline in egg quality and quantity. In some cases, no specific cause is identified, and lifestyle or timing factors may be contributing.
Should my partner also be evaluated for fertility issues?
Yes. Male factor infertility contributes to approximately half of all conception difficulties. It is important for male partners to undergo evaluation of their reproductive health and sperm quality alongside a female fertility evaluation. Your provider at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc can help guide both partners through the evaluation process.
What treatment options are available if a fertility issue is found?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified during your evaluation. Options may include hormonal therapies to support ovulation, treatment of underlying conditions such as thyroid disease or endometriosis, surgical intervention for structural issues, or referral to a reproductive specialist for advanced fertility treatments. Your provider at Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc will discuss all appropriate options with you.
Does Patel & Patel, M.D., Inc offer fertility evaluation for women over 40?
Yes. We encourage women over 40 who are trying to conceive to schedule a fertility evaluation as soon as possible, as fertility declines more significantly with age. Early evaluation allows your provider to identify any contributing factors quickly and recommend the most effective course of action. Call (304) 766-4300 to schedule your appointment in South Charleston, WV today.