Q: I am 24 yrs old and have been trying to conceive for the last 4 years. My husband is 33 yrs old and has been diagnosed with low sperm count, however, till date no medical tests have been performed on me. Now, my gynaecologist has conducted blood tests on me for checking hormone level and has further advised me to undergo Laproscopy. My query is should I directly undergo Laproscopy or is there any other method by which it can be determined whether I have a fertility problem. I understand that other tests like tracking of ovulation cycle and X-ray of uterus/fallopian tubes can also give an idea about infertility issues in females. Please advise.

A:Yes, there are tests like serial ultrasound to track ovulation and a test called HSG- or hysterosalpingography to see if the tubes are patent. These do not require any anaesthesia and are cheaper. They can be done first, but if conception does not take place within a certain time period, after these, then Laproscopy to look for any other diseases maybe needed. There is a controversy as to to which tests should be done first, and which later, as all gynaecologists may not follow the same regimen. However, the decision rests with the patient.