When to See a Fertility Doctor

For a couple trying to conceive a baby, the question of when to see a fertility doctor is bound to come up if efforts have been unsuccessful. There are several criteria which must be met before a couple will be given a referral to a fertility specialist and these can include the following:

Significant male factor with a sperm concentration of less than 10 million per ml, or if motility of less than 40%. Female is aged 38 years of age or older. Blocked fallopian tubes at any age or if one or both tubes are blocked. Other fallopian tube problems at any age, such as one or more ectopic pregnancy. A history of endometriosis at any given age. A problem with ovulation such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, which after being treated with medication for 3-6 months does not yield conception. Abnormal ovarian reserve tests, such as an elevated day three FSH level, at any age.

When a couple has been trying to get pregnant for more than six months and nothing has happened, it can be disheartening and frustrating. A couple may have spent a great deal of time putting off trying to conceive in order to plan accordingly and be well prepared, only to run into a fertility issue. Most couples will not want to face the reality of infertility, but if it has been more than a year and nothing has happened, it is time to consider a fertility specialist. Women that have irregular menstrual cycles or do not ovulate, or are over the age of 35, may want to seek professional advice if there is a risk factor that could delay conception.

Women should start keeping a record of menstrual cycles and ovulation charting can also be helpful to do prior to visiting a fertility specialist. Over the course of several months, a woman can determine her most fertile days and focus on conceiving during that time frame. It is generally a good idea for a couple to consult with a primary care physician or gynecologist prior to seeking the assistance of a fertility specialist. Knowing when to see a fertility doctor is recommended if both male and female fertility are in question and a primary care physician has determined it to be in the best interest of the situation.