When To Seek Fertility Help
For couples who are having difficulty trying to conceive (TTC), there is often a lot of confusion around seeking help. Age can have a significant impact on fertility, so it’s important not to wait too long. Here’s what to know, why age matters, and what to expect during your first visit at a Melbourne fertility clinic.
When Is the Best Time To See a Fertility Doctor?
When you should consult with a fertility specialist when TTC depends on many factors, including your age, health history, and how long you have been trying to get pregnant.
Age
Age is one of the most important things to consider when TTC. As women age, their reproductive system begins to decline and they may have difficulty conceiving or may experience miscarriages. In general, most fertility doctors recommend that women under the age of 35 seek professional help if they have been TTC for one year without success. For women over the age of 35, it is recommended that they seek help from a fertility doctor after six months of unsuccessful attempts at conception.
Health History
Your health history can also affect your fertility and your ability to conceive. If you or your partner have any medical conditions that may affect your fertility, like endometriosis or PCOS, you’ll likely benefit from seeking help sooner rather than later. Other health conditions that may affect fertility include high blood pressure, diabetes, smoking status, and weight.
Length of Time TTC
Another factor to consider is how long you have been trying to get pregnant without success. If you have been trying for less than six months and are under the age of 35, it’s usually advised that you wait another six months before consulting a physician. That said, having a look at your fertility early on can have many benefits, including offering much-needed peace of mind.
What To Expect During the Fertility Evaluation Process
During your first visit at a Viera fertility Center, you can expect to undergo a comprehensive fertility evaluation. This evaluation will help your doctor determine the underlying cause of your infertility. Then a treatment plan can be developed that is best for you.
The doctor will take a thorough medical history and may order various tests, including but not limited to:
- A medical history and physical examination. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, including any past pregnancies, miscarriages, or abortions. They will also perform a physical examination to assess your overall health and to check for any obvious signs of infertility.
- Blood tests. Blood tests can help to evaluate your hormone levels and rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing infertility.
- Ultrasound examinations. Ultrasound examinations may be used to assess the condition of your reproductive organs and to check for any structural abnormalities that could be causing infertility.
In some cases, additional tests may be recommended, such as hysterosalpingography (HSG) or exploratory laparoscopy. HSG is an X-ray procedure used to assess the condition of the fallopian tubes and uterine cavity. Laparoscopy is a surgical procedure used to assess the condition of the reproductive organs and check for endometriosis or other problems that could be causing infertility.
Next Steps
After your first fertility doctor visit, you will likely be given a treatment plan. This plan may include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking.
You may also be prescribed medication or undergo a surgical procedure. Commonly prescribed medications include clomiphene citrate (Clomid) and human gonadotropins (Gonal-F, Follistim AQ). Surgery may be used to repair damage to the reproductive organs, remove blockages from the fallopian tubes, or correct endometriosis.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) may be a solution when other treatments have failed. IVF is a type of assisted reproductive technology during which eggs are fertilized with sperm in a laboratory setting before being implanted into the uterus.
Contact Viera Fertility For Your Appointment Today
If you want to grow your family but are having difficulty TTC, you’re not alone. At Viera Fertility Center, we have a team of caring and qualified fertility specialists who can help you every step of the way and help you achieve your dream of becoming a parent. Call us today at 321.751.4673 (HOPE) to learn more or book your fertility consultation appointment.