Many couples experience disappointment and frustration when they decide they’re ready to have a baby but month after month passes without getting pregnant. It may seem like pregnancy should automatically happen without help, but there are many possible causes for having difficulty conceiving that can be corrected. So, how do you know when to seek fertility treatment?
The decision on when or if to seek fertility treatment is a personal one and when you are ready, The Center for Reproductive Health provides compassionate support for couples who are struggling to get pregnant.
Deciding to Seek Help
Couples under the age of 35 that have spent a year having unprotected intercourse without getting pregnant may need to consider the possibility that pregnancy may not happen without guidance from experts. After the age of 35, your biological clock is ticking and you may not want to postpone seeking guidance longer than six months. The older you get, the more likely you may struggle with infertility and if you’re over the age of 40, you may want to seek help after three months of trying to get pregnant.
Problems with your reproductive system may need to be addressed even if it’s been less than a year since you’ve been trying to get pregnant. If you’ve had more than one miscarriage, or if you have irregular periods, painful periods, or no periods at all, don’t postpone getting professional guidance. If you have chronic medical conditions such as hypertension, thyroid disease, or diabetes, you may want to work with a fertility specialist.
What Causes Infertility?
Infertility has many possible causes, and consulting experts in the field of assisted reproductive technology can help you uncover what’s at the root of your struggles and then can help you determine the best form of treatment. Some of the possible causes of infertility include:
- Problems with ovulation
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Endometriosis
- Poor egg quality
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Low testosterone
- Sexual dysfunction
- Sexually transmitted infections
- Genetic disorders
- Exposure to environmental toxins
Lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, and substance abuse can also affect your reproductive health. Many of these causes can be corrected, which can improve the chance of getting pregnant.
Fertility Treatment Options
The best treatment options for you and your partner depend on the cause of infertility. Some reproductive problems can be surgically corrected if necessary and medications are available that can treat hormone imbalances. Some people benefit from changes such as attaining a healthy weight or discontinuing certain medications.
Advances in assisted reproductive technologies have made successful pregnancies possible for many couples. Determining the best form of treatment for you starts with a complete medical exam for both you and your partner which usually includes diagnostic testing. Your doctor also evaluates your family health history and prior pregnancies that you’ve had.
At the Center for Reproductive Health, you’ll find highly trained and experienced specialists who want to help you reach your goal of a healthy pregnancy. We understand how emotionally draining it can be to have difficulty conceiving, and we treat patients with respect and compassion every step of the way. Schedule a consultation today.
