Before starting any method of IVF treatment in Mexico, all individuals must undergo tests to identify the cause of infertility, ensure there is no additional health problems which may affect treatment and determine which fertility drugs are needed to stimulate hormone production.
Female Fertility Tests before IVF treatment
Pelvic ultrasound – Fertility clinics in Mexico use transvaginal ultrasound to evaluate the uterus, tubes, and ovaries. By using a vaginal probe instead of an abdominal probe we are able to obtain images that are very clear and show very small details.
Sonohysterogram – Test involves placing sterile liquid inside the uterus (via a catheter), and then evaluating the uterus and uterine walls via ultrasound.
Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) – The HSG is a procedure done with contrast dye injected through the cervix into the uterus while observing with fluoroscopy (moving x-rays).
Diagnostic Hysteroscopy and Laparoscopy – Surgical procedures introduced by IVF clinics in Mexico to enhance the observation of the abdomen (laparoscopy) and uterus (Hysteroscopy).
Blood work – Check for thrombophilia and antiphospholipid syndrome (in cases of recurrent miscarriage), as well as a variety of hormones, including LH, FSH, thyroid hormones, androgen hormones, prolactin, estradiol (E2), and progesterone. AMH, or anti-mullerian hormone, may also be tested for.
Infectious testing – Infectious disease testing is important to prevent the transmission of infectious agents to patients and newborns.
Tests Include: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) which is responsible for AIDS, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), HTLV – Human T-Cell Lymphocyte Virus types 1 & 2, Rubella Immunity, Gonorrhea & Chlamydia, Hepatitis B surface antigen, and Hepatitis C.
Male Fertility Tests before IVF treatment
Semen analysis – The main test used by IVF clinics in Mexico to conclude male fertility evaluation. A normal semen analysis does not guarantee a pregnancy but reduces the likelihood that fertilization problems are due to problems with the sperm.
Blood work – Check hormone levels, usually of FSH and testosterone, but sometimes also LH, estradiol, or prolactin.
Testicular biopsy – Test involves the removal of testicular tissue via a minor surgical procedure.
Vasography – Distinct x-ray that is used to look for obstructions of the male reproductive organs
Infectious testing – Infectious disease testing is important to prevent the transmission of infectious agents to patients and newborns.
Tests Include: HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) which is responsible for AIDS, Hepatitis B & C, Syphilis, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), HTLV – Human T-Cell Lymphocyte Virus types 1 & 2, Rubella Immunity, Gonorrhea & Chlamydia, Hepatitis B surface antigen, and Hepatitis C.
Additional tests are required if sperm donation in Mexico will be used.