The single most important factor in predicting pregnancy is the age of the female partner. It is commonly known that as age increases, the chance of pregnancy decreases.  After 35, it is well known that fertility decreases.

 

A recent study by the CDC showed that women in the U.S. and other developed countries are waiting significantly longer before becoming pregnant than women of a generation ago. This means fertility is changing.  The average age of first-time mothers in the U.S. jumped from 21.4 in 1970 to 25 in 2009.

 

During your Fertility Awareness checkup, we will look at your ovarian reserve with a blood test which can test for fertility. Your ovarian reserve refers to the ability of your ovary to make eggs.  These eggs are fertilized and they are what lead to a healthy baby!

 

We will also perform a Saline/Air contrast hysterosalpingogram (SIS). Saline Infusion Sonogram with air bubble contrast is a fertility test which can be accurate in diagnosing tubal blockage which is a major cause of infertility and performs similarly to a test done by X-ray WITHOUT radiation exposure! 

SIS is useful in the initial workup of infertile couples because it also allows for us to look at the ovaries and muscle of the uterus to look for fibroids,  better sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of uterine cavity abnormalities, absence of radiation from X-ray and risk of iodine allergy, with only a minimum of discomfort.

*S. Maheux-Lacroix et al. Hum Reprod 2014;29(5):953-63.

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Saline Infusion Sonogram Q and A:

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When is the best time to get this test?

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It is best to get your Saline Infusion Sonogram with air contrast for fertility testing in the week AFTER your period.  Then, the lining of the uterus is less and will allow for better visualization of the structures.

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How do I prepare for this test?

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There is minimal preparation for the Saline Infusion Sonogram.  Just make sure to track that you will be after your menses to see the inside lining of the uterus best.  We will also perform a urine pregnancy test prior to testing.

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What will the doctor see during the Saline Infusion Sonogram for fertility checking?

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Your physician will be able to see the inside of the uterus to check for polyps, thickening, or fibroids.  A routine ultrasound may also be done to examine the ovaries.