When to See a Fertility Doctor
If you’ve been trying to conceive (TTC) for a while without success, you may be wondering when it’s time to seek the help of a fertility specialist.
When to See a Fertility Doctor
While every fertility journey is unique, there are guidelines and red flags that can help determine when to consult a fertility doctor. Here's what you need to know about trying to conceive and when it may be time to seek support from a fertility specialist.
How Long Should You Try to Conceive Before Seeking Help?
General Guidelines
The general rule of thumb is based on age:
Under 35 years old: Try to conceive for 12 months before seeking medical advice.
35 and older: Seek help after 6 months of actively trying to conceive.
These recommendations are in place because fertility naturally declines with age, especially for women. If you've been actively trying (tracking ovulation, having regular unprotected intercourse) and haven’t conceived within these time frames, it’s wise to consult a fertility doctor to evaluate potential issues and have routine fertility testing done on both female and male partners.
Symptoms of Infertility: Red Flags to Be Aware Of
Infertility now affects one in six. While time spent trying to conceive is a primary indicator, there are other symptoms and red flags that might suggest an underlying fertility issue. If you experience any of the following, it may be worth scheduling an appointment with a specialist sooner:
For Women:
Irregular or absent periods: Menstrual cycles that are too long (more than 35 days), too short (less than 21 days), or absent altogether can be a sign of ovulation problems.
Severe menstrual pain: Painful periods or pelvic pain could indicate conditions like endometriosis or fibroids, which can affect fertility.
History of miscarriages: Multiple miscarriages may be a sign of a fertility issue that requires medical intervention.
Known medical conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), genetic disorders, cancer, thyroid disorders, or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can impact fertility.
For Men:
Changes in sexual function: Erectile dysfunction, reduced sex drive, or issues with ejaculation can point to underlying fertility problems.
Pain or swelling in the testicles: Discomfort in the testicles could signal infections or other conditions affecting sperm production.
Previous medical conditions: Men with a history of testicular injury, certain medical treatments (such as chemotherapy), or genetic conditions may be at risk for infertility.
Age Considerations When TTC
Age is one of the most significant factors in fertility for both men and women, but especially for women due to the natural decline in egg quality and quantity over time. Here’s how age plays into fertility:
Women under 35: Women in their early reproductive years generally have higher fertility, but issues can still arise e.g., diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), premature menopause or primary ovarian insufficiency (POI). Around 85% of couples in this age group will conceive within a year.
Women aged 35-39: Fertility begins to decline more rapidly around age 35. The quality and quantity of eggs diminish, and it may take longer to conceive.
Women 40 and older: After age 40, fertility decreases significantly. Women in this age group should seek help after 3-6 months of trying, as the window of opportunity may be smaller.
For men, fertility does not decline as dramatically with age, but sperm quality and motility can be affected as they grow older. Age-related changes can contribute to a lower likelihood of conception or higher risk of miscarriage.
The Importance of Preconception Care
Even before you start trying to conceive, taking steps to improve your overall fertility health can have a positive impact on your fertility. Preconception care is about preparing your body for pregnancy and optimizing your chances of success, but there are steps that can be taken to help optimize both egg health and sperm health.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Maintain a healthy weight: Both underweight and overweight individuals can experience fertility challenges. Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise can promote hormonal balance and improve fertility.
Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can harm fertility for both men and women. Reducing or eliminating these habits can improve your chances of conception.
Limit caffeine: Keep caffeine consumption to under 200 mg per day (about one 12-ounce cup of coffee) when TTC.
Manage stress: While stress itself isn’t a direct cause of infertility, chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance and ovulation. Incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or therapy can be beneficial.
Taking a Prenatal Vitamin:
Starting a prenatal vitamin even before you conceive can make a big difference. Prenatal vitamins with folic acid (600-800 mcg daily) are crucial for reducing the risk of neural tube defects and supporting overall fetal development. Other important nutrients include iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which can support a healthy pregnancy from the very beginning.
When to Make the Call
If any of these guidelines resonate with your experience—whether it's been months of TTC with no success, irregular cycles, concerning symptoms, or you're nearing 35 or older—it may be time to talk to a fertility specialist. Though these are the general guidelines, it is never too early to be evaluated and learn more about your fertility. Consulting with a fertility doctor can feel like a big step, but it doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it means that you’re taking the proactive steps necessary to help achieve your dream of growing your family.
Trust Your Instincts
You know your body best, and if something feels off, don’t hesitate to seek advice earlier than suggested. It’s always okay to advocate for yourself and ask for the support you need on this journey.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider or qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog.