When to see a fertility specialist: 5 signs you shouldn’t ignore

For most couples, wanting a child is a very thoughtful and emotional milestone – one that leads to excitement, and anticipation.

For some, though, the journey has more hurdles, where months pass by and conception continues to elude them.

In these times, one of the most valuable things a couple can do is seek clarity by taking a fertility consultation.

Going to see a fertility specialist does not mean that something is wrong, it’s a move towards gaining better understanding of one’s own reproductive health, catching potential stumbling blocks early on, and making smart decisions.

Then, how do you know when it’s time to get that first consultation? Although each person is different, there are a few signs that cannot be overlooked. This applies to both men and women, as infertility is not only a woman’s issue.

Male factors contribute to about 40–50% of infertility cases. Some common situations where you should seek help include:

If you have been trying to conceive for long, consider meeting a specialist. As per medical guidance, couples under 35 should seek help if they haven’t conceived after a year of trying, while those over 35 should do so after six months. Prolonged attempts without conception could be a sign of underlying reproductive issues.

With age, fertility starts to decline. The only difference is that for women, it happens much earlier compared to men. Women’s fertility starts to decline after 30, and by the time they are 35, this becomes more pronounced.

For men, the fertility decline becomes noticeable in their 40s. Getting early help when age is a factor can significantly improve the chances of conception.

Two or more pregnancy losses could be a sign of an underlying cause. Genetic abnormalities, uterine or cervical problems, hormonal imbalances, and certain chronic health conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues can lead to miscarriage. Also, sperm DNA fragmentation, structural chromosomal abnormalities, and lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption can also contribute to miscarriage.

Irregular periods in women due to medical conditions such as PCOS, thyroid imbalances, or elevated prolactin levels can interfere with the normal functioning of the body, making it difficult to conceive naturally. Irregular periods indicate inconsistent ovulation and hormonal imbalance. If you experience extreme discomfort or pain during your period, it could also mean endometriosis and one should consult a fertility specialist.

An unhealthy lifestyle, such as a poor diet, lack of exercise, excessive stress, poor sleep, smoking, and drinking alcohol, can interfere with the hormonal balance of the body. If your lifestyle is not healthy, or you take medications for any health condition, schedule an appointment with a fertility specialist.

Meeting a fertility specialist is all about taking the first step towards gain clarity regarding your reproductive health. Many couples, with the right support and care, go on to have a healthy pregnancy naturally as well. If you are unsure, do not wait too long. The sooner you find out, the better your chances of planning the next steps correctly.