Diagnostic Methods for the Female Partner
Examination
If you have been trying to conceive without success, or simply want to understand your fertility before it becomes urgent — this is where to start. Dr. Shefketova begins with a full specialist consultation, including a gynaecological and ultrasound examination, giving a clear picture of your reproductive health from the very first visit. You will leave with answers, not more uncertainty. Every next step is explained in plain language so you understand exactly what is happening and why.
Laboratory Test
Understanding your hormones is one of the most important steps in any fertility journey — and one of the most commonly skipped. Dr. Shefketova tests the full hormonal profile: AMH, Inhibin B, FSH, LH, Estradiol, thyroid hormones and Immunological Status. Together, these results reveal how your body is functioning and what, if anything, needs support. Timing is everything. Some tests need to be done on specific days of your cycle. You will receive clear guidance on exactly when to come in and how to prepare.
Hysterosalpingography
This procedure checks the patency of the fallopian tubes using a contrast material under X-ray control.
Hysteroscopy in Sofia
One of the most important steps before IVF — and one of the most overlooked.
Many women go through multiple failed cycles before anyone looks inside the uterus. Hysteroscopy takes 20 to 30 minutes and can find the exact reason implantation is not working.
Dr. Shefketova performs hysteroscopy as both a diagnostic and operative procedure. What is found is treated in the same visit — no second procedure, no extra recovery time, no unnecessary delay in your fertility journey.
What hysteroscopy finds — and fixes
Endometrial polyps are one of the most common hidden causes of IVF failure. Fibroids inside the uterine cavity, intrauterine adhesions from previous procedures, congenital abnormalities in the shape of the uterus, and structural causes of recurrent miscarriage — all of these can be identified and treated through hysteroscopy before fertility treatment begins.
Ultrasound does not always catch these. A hysteroscope does.
Who should consider hysteroscopy
Hysteroscopy is recommended if you have had one or more failed IVF cycles, recurrent miscarriage, unexplained infertility, abnormal bleeding, or if you are planning IVF and want to rule out uterine issues before starting stimulation.
Identifying and resolving a uterine issue before IVF significantly improves the chance of a successful outcome.
The procedure
A thin camera is inserted through the vagina and cervix — no incisions, no general anaesthesia in most cases. The uterine cavity is viewed in real time. Most patients return to normal activity the same day. Mild cramping is common and short-lived.
Why this matters for your IVF outcome
A uterus that looks normal on ultrasound can still have issues that prevent implantation. Hysteroscopy is the only way to see the uterine cavity directly. For women planning IVF, it is one of the highest-value steps you can take before your first cycle begins.