What is a Hysterosalpingogram (HSG) and How is it Used During an Infertility Evaluation?

💪 Why Male Fertility Matters Infertility affects 1 in 8 couples , and in about 40–50% of those cases , a male factor is part of the equation. These factors can include: Low sperm count or poor motility (how sperm move) Abnormal sperm shape (morphology) Hormonal imbalances Genetic conditions Lifestyle or environmental exposures The good news? Many of these issues are treatable with the right medical care and support. 🧬 What Affects Sperm Health? Sperm health depends on several key factors, including: Age and lifestyle : Smoking, alcohol, poor diet, or lack of exercise can reduce sperm quality. Heat exposure : Frequent use of hot tubs, saunas, or placing laptops on your lap can affect sperm production. Stress : Chronic stress can impact hormones responsible for sperm production. Medical conditions : Varicoceles (enlarged veins), infections, or hormonal disorders can interfere with fertility. Even simple changes —like maintaining a healthy weight, improving nutrition, and reducing heat and toxin exposure—can make a big difference. 🧪 How Male Fertility Is Tested At Caperton Fertility Institute , male fertility testing begins with a semen analysis , a simple and non-invasive test that evaluates sperm count, motility, and shape. Depending on the results, additional tests such as hormone evaluations, genetic testing, or physical exams may be recommended. These help our team create a personalized fertility treatment plan tailored to each couple’s needs. 🌟 Modern Treatments for Male Factor Infertility Thanks to advancements in reproductive technology, male infertility is no longer a barrier to starting or growing your family. Some treatment options include: Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Concentrated, healthy sperm are placed directly into the uterus. In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs and sperm are combined in the lab to create embryos. ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single healthy sperm is injected directly into an egg — often used when sperm count or motility is low. Sperm retrieval procedures: Used when sperm are not present in the semen due to blockage or other causes. Our team specializes in advanced male fertility diagnostics and treatments , ensuring every couple has the best chance at success. ❤️ Breaking the Stigma Men’s reproductive health is often overlooked — but it shouldn’t be. Fertility challenges are not a reflection of masculinity or worth . They’re a medical issue, just like any other, and addressing them early can lead to faster, more effective solutions. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we encourage men to take charge of their fertility health by scheduling a consultation or semen analysis this Movember. The first step toward hope often begins with a simple conversation. 🕊️ This Movember, Let’s Start the Conversation Infertility is a couple’s journey , and awareness is the first step toward understanding, support, and success. Join us this Movember in breaking the silence around male fertility. Together, we can turn awareness into action — and dreams into families.

Uterine fibroids are a common diagnosis among women of reproductive age. While many fibroids are harmless and cause no symptoms, others can interfere with fertility and pregnancy. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we help patients understand how fibroids may affect reproductive health and provide personalized treatment options to optimize fertility outcomes. What Are Uterine Fibroids? Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas , are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Depending on where they form, fibroids are classified into several types: Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity Intramural Fibroids: Develop within the uterine wall Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk extending from the uterus How Fibroids Can Affect Fertility Not all fibroids impact fertility. However, certain types and locations are more likely to interfere with conception, implantation, or pregnancy progression. Submucosal Fibroids: These are most likely to affect fertility because they distort the uterine cavity, which can prevent implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Intramural Fibroids: When large, these fibroids can change the shape of the uterus and affect blood flow, potentially reducing the chances of successful embryo implantation. Tubal Blockage: Fibroids located near the fallopian tubes can obstruct sperm or egg movement, preventing fertilization. Cervical Fibroids: Although rare, fibroids near the cervix can hinder sperm entry into the uterus. Common Symptoms of Fibroids Fibroid symptoms vary widely — some people experience significant discomfort, while others have no symptoms at all. Common signs include: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding Pelvic pain or pressure Pain during intercourse Frequent urination or constipation Recurrent pregnancy loss or difficulty conceiving For many patients, fibroids are first discovered during a fertility evaluation or routine pelvic exam . Diagnosis and Treatment Options At Caperton Fertility Institute , we use advanced diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI to assess fibroid size, number, and location. Once diagnosed, treatment is tailored to your fertility goals and overall health. Treatment options include: Medical Management: Hormonal therapies to reduce symptoms and fibroid growth. Surgical Options: Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery for faster recovery and minimal scarring. Our approach is designed to preserve fertility whenever possible while alleviating symptoms and improving uterine health. Hope After a Fibroid Diagnosis A fibroid diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. Many patients with fibroids go on to achieve healthy pregnancies — especially with proper evaluation and treatment. At Caperton Fertility Institute , our experienced fertility specialists in Albuquerque, NM , and El Paso, TX , provide compassionate, individualized care for every patient. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and the next steps toward achieving your dream of parenthood. ✨ If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your fertility, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the next step together toward your fertility goals.