Many couples and people trying to get pregnant find it hard and stressful to decide when to contact a fertility specialist.

Pregnancy can take a while, but knowing when to get expert help can help you succeed and lower your stress. This guide will help you confidently take the next steps by showing you the most important indicators, timings, and situations that mean it’s time to see a fertility specialist.

Knowing about fertility and when to ask for help

Fertility is the inherent ability to get pregnant. Most couples become pregnant after a year of trying, but if they don’t get pregnant after having sex without protection regularly, it could be time to look into fertility help.

Age, lifestyle, and health problems can all affect fertility, and knowing when to act can make a major difference in the results.

When to See a Fertility Specialist: Things to Think About

Couples under 35 should try to get pregnant naturally for at least 12 months before going to consult a fertility specialist. This time frame lets conception happen at different times without any need for outside help.

Experts say that women over 35 should contact a fertility doctor after six months of trying to get pregnant without success. It can be helpful to check fertility early because it tends to go down with age.

If you know of any specific fertility problems or risk factors, you should think about contacting a doctor sooner, no matter how old you are.

Immediate Referral: When to See a Fertility Specialist Sooner

In some cases, you shouldn’t wait to see a reproductive specialist:

• Problems with reproduction that are known: If you or your partner have had polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, a low sperm count, or an infection in the pelvic in the past,
• If your periods are erratic or don’t happen at all, it could mean that you have problems ovulating and should consult a doctor.
• Past operations or medical procedures, like cancer treatments or surgery on the reproductive organs, can impair fertility.
• Over 40: After 40, your chances of getting pregnant go down a lot, therefore it’s important to receive help right away.
• You should consult a doctor if you’ve had a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy and are still losing pregnancies.
• Imaging or tests from the past that show abnormalities with the uterus or fallopian tubes that are already known.

In many circumstances, going to the doctor soon away helps them figure out what’s wrong and how to fix it.

Signs That You Might Need Help Getting Pregnant

Aside from the time frame, there are certain symptoms that you should see a reproductive expert:

• No pregnancy after having sex without protection on a regular basis, even though you did it two to three times a week around ovulation.
• Heavy or painful periods could mean something else is wrong, like endometriosis.
• Partner has problems becoming pregnant: Male fertility is highly important and should not be neglected.

Other health problems: Some disorders that can make it hard to get pregnant are thyroid problems, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases.

What to Expect When You Go to a Fertility Doctor

During your first visit, the fertility doctor will ask both partners a lot of questions about their medical history and may even do physical exams. They will request tests like checking hormone levels.

• Ultrasound scans to look at the uterus and ovaries
• Semen testing for male fertility
• Other specialist tests based on your medical history

The doctor will talk about treatment choices based on the results. These could be changes to your way of life, your medications, or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.

Getting Ready in a Practical and Emotional Way

Going to see a reproductive doctor can be both hopeful and scary. Setting realistic goals and getting advice from friends, family, or a counsellor could help you become ready emotionally. To get ready, you can do these things:

• A diary of your fertility or an ovulation tracker
• Keeping note of your past treatments and medical history
• Writing down your queries or worries for your expert

Talking freely with your partner and the professionals who work in your health care will help you and get you better results.

Last Thoughts

Many Australians have trouble getting pregnant, but the sooner you get help, the more likely you are to get pregnant. If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a few months or know you have risk factors, talking to a fertility professional is a good way to start a family.

Talk to your GP first if you’re not sure when to consult a reproductive specialist. They can assist you understand your options and walk you through the referral process.