Final answer:
Early pregnancy failure is typically diagnosed by confirming ovulation with home ovulation predictor kits, examining cervical mucus, and possibly further testing like ultrasounds, X-rays, or laparoscopy. In the context of in vitro fertilization, PGD is used to screen embryos before implantation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The accepted method of diagnosing pregnancy failure early includes several steps. Initially, health care providers ensure that ovulation is occurring. This can be done at home using a home ovulation predictor kit, which detects hormonal changes indicating ovulation. If ovulation is occurring normally, further examinations such as blood tests, ultrasound imaging, and possibly an X-ray of the Fallopian tubes and uterus might be conducted to check for structural problems. In some cases, a laparoscopy may be performed to directly inspect the reproductive organs.
In addition, monitoring cervical mucus may be more effective than basal body temperature as it can predict ovulation before it occurs. The characteristics of the cervical mucus change as ovulation approaches, providing a method to predict the timing of ovulation and, hence, the optimal time for conception or to prevent pregnancy.
For individuals undergoing in vitro fertilization, prenatal genetic diagnosis (PGD) can be used to screen embryos prior to implantation, thus ensuring the selection of embryos without genetic complications. PGD is a part of the process of in vitro fertilization, wherein embryos are conceived outside the mother's body before being implanted.