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When to See a Fertility Doctor

Knowing when to consult a fertility specialist can be challenging, but understanding certain guidelines can help navigate this decision. Fertility doctors are OB/GYNs with additional training in reproductive health, and while some general OB/GYNs can initiate fertility evaluations and treatments, many people opt to work directly with a fertility specialist for comprehensive care.

Here are the key guidelines and situations when you should consider seeking help:


General Guidelines

  • For women under 35: If you’ve been trying to conceive for one year without success, it's time to seek a fertility evaluation.

  • For women 35 or older: Since egg quality declines with age, you should consider seeing a fertility doctor after six months of unsuccessful attempts.

However, there are situations where you should skip the waiting period and seek immediate help from a fertility specialist.


Situations to See a Fertility Doctor Right Away

  1. Irregular Periods: If you’re not getting a regular menstrual cycle, it’s likely you’re not ovulating (releasing eggs), which can impact fertility.

  2. Previous Surgery on Ovaries or Tubes: If you’ve had surgery on your fallopian tubes or ovaries, fertility could be affected. Your tubes may not be open, or you may have a reduced egg reserve.

  3. Same-Sex Relationships: For couples in same-sex relationships, fertility assistance is necessary to acquire sperm or eggs for conception.

  4. Hysterectomy: If you’ve had your uterus removed, you will need a gestational carrier (surrogate) to carry the pregnancy.

  5. Genetic Concerns: If you’re a carrier for a genetic condition that you don’t want to pass down, you can opt for genetic screening of embryos or consider using donor sperm or eggs.

  6. Multiple Miscarriages: Having more than one miscarriage warrants a fertility evaluation to investigate potential causes and prevent further pregnancy losses.

  7. Male Fertility Issues: If your male partner has had testicular surgery, erectile dysfunction, or problems with ejaculation, these may affect sperm quality and require attention.

  8. Testosterone Treatment: If your partner is undergoing testosterone therapy (whether through boosters, supplements, or injections), it can halt sperm production, making fertility assistance necessary.

  9. Sterilization: If either you or your partner has had a sterilization procedure (e.g., tubal ligation or vasectomy), fertility treatments will be needed to achieve pregnancy.

  10. Fibroids: If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, especially if they are inside the uterine cavity, it’s important to assess their potential impact on your ability to carry a pregnancy.


Moving Forward

If any of these situations apply to you, it’s important to seek help early. Fertility evaluations can feel intimidating, but finding a fertility clinic and specialist that you are comfortable with can make the process smoother. Advances in fertility treatments can help many people realize their dreams of parenthood. Don't hesitate to take the first step toward building your family.

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