Diagnostic Methods

A woman’s initial fertility assessment includes a transvaginal ultrasound of the uterus and ovaries, performed with consideration of the phase of the menstrual cycle, followed by a gynecological examination.

Ultrasound allows the physician to assess:

• signs of endometriosis. 
• the size and shape of the uterus, 
• the presence of fibroids, 
• the thickness and quality of the uterine lining (endometrium), 
• the condition of the ovaries, 
• follicle development, 
• ovarian cysts, 

Blood tests performed between day 1 and day 3 of the menstrual cycle provide important information about ovarian function, ovarian reserve, and the expected response to ovarian stimulation.

The examination typically includes:

• Thyroid hormones (TSH, fT4) 
• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) 
• Luteinizing Hormone (LH) 
• Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), which reflects ovarian reserve 
• Prolactin (PRL) 

Hysterosalpingography (HSG) is an X-ray examination that evaluates the shape of the uterine cavity and whether the fallopian tubes are open.

During the procedure, the gynecologist gently injects a contrast medium through the cervix. The movement of the contrast agent is monitored using X-ray imaging, allowing the physician to assess tubal patency.

Do you suffer from:

• painful periods? 
• difficulty becoming pregnant? 
• recurrent abnormal uterine bleeding? 

Hysteroscopy is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that allows the inside of the uterus to be examined using a thin optical camera. It is performed on an outpatient basis, and patients can usually return home shortly after the procedure.

Hysteroscopy is recommended in cases of:

• suspected uterine abnormalities (fibroids, polyps, adhesions, etc.) 
• infertility 
• suspected uterine tumors 

or when experiencing:

• painful menstruation 
• irregular uterine bleeding 
• insufficient endometrial growth 
• cervical canal narrowing (for example after curettage, miscarriage management, Caesarean section, or termination of pregnancy) 

Benefits

• High accuracy – an excellent diagnostic method. 
• Fast procedure – usually completed within a few minutes. 
• Comfortable – no general anaesthesia or hospitalization required. 
• Covered by health insurance – for eligible patients under the Czech healthcare system. 

As part of infertility diagnostics, the examination can also be extended with HyFoSy (Hysterosalpingo-Foam Sonography), an ultrasound procedure used to evaluate fallopian tube patency.

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to examine the abdominal cavity and assess the fallopian tubes.

Using specialized instruments inserted through several small incisions, the surgeon can visualize the pelvic organs and perform any necessary treatment without the need for open surgery.

Laparoscopy may be performed for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Genetic testing evaluates the chromosomes of both partners and provides important information about their genetic background.

Abnormal genetic findings may:

• contribute to infertility, 
• reduce the success of assisted reproductive treatment, 
• increase the risk of recurrent miscarriage. 

In men, genetic abnormalities may also impair sperm production. In such cases, additional testing for cystic fibrosis and Y chromosome microdeletions is often recommended.

Immunological testing is one of the standard fertility assessments for women at IVF Zlín.

The examination may include testing for antibodies against:

• sperm, 
• eggs, 
• embryos, 
• antiphospholipid antibodies. 

In selected cases—such as recurrent miscarriage or repeated unsuccessful IVF treatment—additional testing of natural killer (NK) cells and cellular immunity may also be performed.