Infertility is defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after at least one year of systematic attempts. 1 in 5 couples worldwide will face this problem. Since 2015 it has been classified as a health disorder and requires treatment according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Appropriate investigation of both the man and the woman, accurate diagnosis and individualised treatment largely determine the prognosis.

For the woman, in addition to taking a medical history, the tests that should be recommended at the start of the investigation are transvaginal ultrasound, blood tests to measure hormone levels, assessment of tubal patency, and vaginal and cervical swabs to check for infections. Diagnostic laparoscopy and hysteroscopy, immunological testing, and testing for thrombophilia and vitamin deficiencies are recommended on a case-by-case basis.

For the man, semen analysis and semen culture provide important information. In addition, sperm DNA fragmentation (DFI) and sperm FISH are more specialised tests, which we recommend on a case-by-case basis.