What are the first steps in an infertility evaluation?

Your history!: First, any infertility work up starts with a complete medical history. Infertlity may be: female, male, or "unexplained". It's important to know your menstrual pattern as that is a clue as to your ovulation ability. Next, a blood test can be drawn before your cycle to see if there is evidence of ovulation (progesterone level). Other tests include a test to check for tubal patency and a semen eval.

See a specialist: See a reproductive endocrinology and infertility md, who will review your medical history and your partner's history, examine you, and recommend fertility tests. These may include blood work to check your ovarian reserve (egg number and quality) and to check for hormonal problems, an ultrasound scan of your uterus and ovaries, a hsg to check your tubes, and a semen analysis for him. Best wishes.