What are the components of the initial infertility workup?

• A. Confirm ovulation; assess tubal patency; semen analysis; ovarian reserve testing; pelvic ultrasound; medical history.
• B. Only semen analysis.
• C. Only ovulation testing.
• D. Only tubal patency.

Answer: (A)

A comprehensive initial infertility workup looks at both partners and addresses several potential points of failure. For the female side, confirming that ovulation occurs is essential because without regular ovulation, conception is unlikely. Tubal patency is next, since blocked fallopian tubes can prevent fertilization or implantation; this is evaluated with imaging tests such as hysterosalpingography or HyCoSy. Pregnancy potential and ovarian reserve are also considered: ovarian reserve testing (like day‑3 FSH, AMH, or antral follicle count) helps predict response to treatment and remaining egg quantity, while pelvic ultrasound evaluates uterine and ovarian anatomy for fibroids, polycystic ovaries, endometriomas, or other structural issues. A thorough medical history rounds out the picture, identifying risk factors, prior surgeries, infections, endocrine problems, medications, and lifestyle factors that could influence fertility. For the male partner, semen analysis is included to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology, since male factor contributes to infertility in many couples. When combined, these components give a complete view of common reversible and treatable factors and guide management. Limiting evaluation to a single aspect, such as only semen analysis or only ovulation testing, would miss other critical contributors.