Gynecology involves treating and caring for the female reproductive system. Gynecologists assess your reproductive system and perform diagnostic tests to check for infertility issues. Here’s more information about how a gynecologist helps with infertility:
Preliminary Fertility Evaluation
A gynecologist performs a fertility evaluation to understand your current fertility journey. An assessment includes a medical history review and physical exam. Gynecologists may ask for information about previous pregnancies and your menstrual cycle. They also perform blood and hormone tests to diagnose underlying causes of infertility. After standardized infertility screenings, your doctor will be able to tailor diagnostic tests and treatments to your needs.
Endometriosis Treatment
Endometriosis is a condition that develops when uterine lining tissues grow outside the womb and in the pelvic area. The endometrial tissue growing outside the uterus may become inflamed during hormonal shifts, causing pain and infertility. Doctors perform a physical exam and an ultrasound scan of your pelvic area to identify the presence of endometriosis. Some patients need a laparoscopy procedure to receive a definitive diagnosis. Treatment options for endometriosis include birth control pills, progesterone IUDs, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Gynecology specialists may prescribe medications to reduce pain and inflammation and improve your chances of conceiving naturally.
Irregular Period Treatment
Vaginal bleeding outside your regular period qualifies as irregular periods. Irregular periods can be heavy and vary in length. Unusual bleeding can result from cancerous conditions and sexually transmitted diseases that cause infertility. Gynecologists perform laboratory tests and endometrial biopsies to determine the cause of your irregular periods. Treatment methods for heavy and irregular bleeding include hormonal birth control and polypectomy. A polypectomy procedure involves removing a polyp from inside your uterus to prevent structural irregularities that affect bleeding.
Colposcopy
A gynecologist performs a colposcopy to examine the cervix in detail. Specialists perform this test if your cervical screening shows signs of cell changes caused by HPV that could be causing infertility. During this procedure, your doctor will use a speculum and colposcope to get a clear view of the affected tissue. The doctor brushes the cervix with a solution to identify abnormal cells and may take a cell sample for further testing.
Hysteroscopy
Women’s health specialists perform hysteroscopy procedures to identify health conditions in the uterus causing infertility. During the procedure, they use a hysteroscope to examine the uterine cavity and diagnose conditions that contribute to recurrent miscarriages and female infertility. Doctors perform a hysteroscopy if you’re undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF). This fertilization technique involves fertilizing your egg outside your body in the IVF lab. Your doctor will place the resulting embryo back into your womb for implantation.
Dilation and Curettage
Doctors use the dilation and curettage procedure to dilate the cervix and remove abnormal tissues from the uterus. They use a curette to scrape the uterine lining, resulting in minor lesions. The inflammatory nature of the lesions causes the body to perform natural repairs and restore a healthy uterine lining. The procedure helps specialists determine the cause of abnormal uterine bleeding as part of infertility. Specialists also perform the procedure after missed or incomplete miscarriages to remove retained tissue that could become hazardous to your health. During the procedure, your doctor provides sedation to alleviate discomfort.
Explore Gynecology Services for Infertility
A gynecologist provides treatments for gynecological health issues that interfere with your reproductive health and ability to conceive. They offer consultation appointments to help you understand their diagnostic testing and treatment options. Contact a reputable gynecology practitioner today to learn more about their services and schedule an appointment.