The modern fertility hormone drugs can solve most ovulation problems. Top of Page Cervical Problems Around the time of ovulation the mucus produced by the cervix is clear, watery and copious allowing sperm to swim freely through. Sometimes the mucus may be of poor quality or may contain antibodies which immobilise or kill the sperm. Top of Page Uterine Problems Within the uterus defects in the shape of the cavity, polyps in the cavity, or scar tissue or fibroids in the uterine wall can interfere with embryo implantation. Problems A laparoscopy, usually a minor day procedure under a general anaesthetic, allows the pelvic cavity to be checked for adhesions and endometriosis which could inhibit ovulation or egg pickup by the tubes.
Adhesions can result from pelvic infections or from previous surgery.
Endometriosis, the growth of uterine lining cells on any of the organs or surfaces in the pelvis including the ovaries, can result in obstruction to ovulation and egg entry into the tubes. There are both drug and surgical treatments for endomeiosis. If at laparoscopy, or after a hysterosalpingogram there is doubt over tubal patency, this may be checked by the passage of dye through them. A falloposcopy may also be performed where the doctor is able to directly visualise the inside of the tubes looking for damage or blockage. Top of Page Male Semen Problems Over one third of infertile couples have problems with the husband's semen as the principal or a contributing cause of the infertility.