IVF Causes and Evaluation

When you arrive at Liv Hospital for your initial evaluation, we perform a “360-degree” assessment. We recommend both partners attend the first visit.

For the Female Partner:

1. AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) Test: A simple blood test that gives us a snapshot of your “Ovarian Reserve” (how many eggs you have left). Unlike FSH, it can be done on any day of your cycle.
   • High AMH: Suggests PCOS.
   • Low AMH: Suggests diminished reserve (time is critical).
2. Transvaginal Ultrasound: We count the “Antral Follicles” (sleeping eggs) in your ovaries to confirm the AMH results. We also check the uterus for fibroids or polyps.
3. HSG (Hysterosalpingogram): The “dye test.” We inject a contrast liquid into the uterus and take X-rays. It shows if the fallopian tubes are open and if the uterine cavity has a normal shape. It causes mild cramping but is over in 5 minutes.
4. Hormone Panel (Day 2-3): Measuring FSH, LH, Estradiol, Prolactin, and TSH (Thyroid) to check for hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation.

For the Male Partner:

1. Semen Analysis (Spermiogram): The most critical test.
   • Requirement: You must abstain from ejaculation for 2–5 days before the test.
   • What we measure: Volume, Count, Motility, and Morphology.
2. Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test: If there is a history of miscarriage or failed IVF elsewhere, we check the DNA integrity.
3. Scrotal Ultrasound: To check for Varicoceles (swollen veins in the scrotum) which can heat up the testicles and damage sperm.

Advanced Genetic Evaluation (Karyotyping)

If a couple has had recurrent miscarriages or failed IVF cycles, we perform a Karyotype blood test on both parents.

• Why? Sometimes a parent carries a “Balanced Translocation”—a rearrangement of chromosomes. They are healthy, but their eggs/sperm have unbalanced chromosomes, leading to embryos that cannot survive. If found, we recommend PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing).