Don't Neglect Mammograms out of Fear

Infertility Testing: When Should I Go In?

If you are a couple that is hoping to have a child, you may wonder how long you need to wait before seeking the help of an infertility specialist. There are several reasons why any couple could experience infertility including age, medical history, past trauma, congenital abnormalities, dysfunction, or a plethora of other reasons. Most people should try for at least a year before they seek infertility services. However, for those over the age of 35, they may want to find help after just 6 months. With regular and consistent sex, around 84% of couples will get pregnant within a year. There are a few indicators that you may need to see a fertility specialist earlier than a year, such as the following.

Period Issues

Periods are extremely important on the journey to get pregnant. The absence of a period usually means that you are not ovulating, which makes it physically impossible to get pregnant. Very heavy periods, or having bleeding between periods could be a sign that you have underlying issues such as a uterine fibroid or cyst, which could make getting pregnant difficult. If you are having irregular periods, it could make it hard to determine when you are ovulating, limiting your chances of getting pregnant naturally. Your gynecologist should be able to help you determine and treat any challenges that arise from period issues. 

History of STIs

Did you know that having a history of sexually transmitted infections could potentially affect your fertility? These infections can cause inflammation or scarring, which could damage fallopian tubes in women or affect sperm production in men. Both of these challenges could make fertility difficult or impossible. Talk to your doctor for additional testing if frequent STIs have been a challenge in your past. 

Multiple Miscarriages

If you have been able to get pregnant, but have not been able to carry a gestation to term, there could be some underlying reason. The enzyme MTHFR, for example, could be playing a role in your pregnancies, but it can be treated easily.  Simple blood tests can be conducted in order to test for causes of miscarriage. 

In conclusion, if you have not gotten pregnant immediately, don't give up. Sometimes it just takes time. If you or your partner are experiencing any of the medical issues listed here, you may want to see your OB/GYN and ask about infertility treatment. Good luck on your journey to have a family. 


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