ABSTRACT

The list of the main parameters used for classification of infertility is virtually endless. Classification may be based on demographical or sociological parameters, on main symptoms or on possible late sequelae. The most frequently used assessment of infertility has been founded on establishment of pathophysiological mechanisms. Indeed, this traditional method has been for many years taught in medical schools and succesfully practiced in many branches of medicine. No wonder that it was almost automatically applied to infertility. This led to construction of a scheduled, rather extensive, diagnostic sequence which was applied in each case in order to arrive at a diagnosis as exact as possible before application of any therapy (Fig. 3.1). The main elements of this sequence were detailed anamnesis; accurate general physical and genital examination of both partners; hormonal sonographic and other assessments of ovulation; examination of mechanical parameters by hysterosalpingography and/or laparoscopy and hysteroscopy; at least two semen fluid analyses; post coital test and a whole array of special examinations if considered indicated or required. For specific disturbances such as amenorrhea or azoospermia additional diagnostic schemes were utilized.