Starting a family is an exciting journey, but for some couples, it can be a challenging and emotional process. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, you may be wondering when it’s time to seek professional help. This guide will help you understand the right time to consult a fertility specialist and explore your treatment options.

General Guidelines for Seeking Help

The general rule of thumb for seeking fertility treatment depends on your age:

• If you’re under 35, it’s recommended to seek help after 12 months of trying to conceive.
  
• If you’re 35 or older, you should consider getting tested after 6 months of trying.
  

These guidelines are based on the natural decline in fertility that occurs with age, particularly in women. However, it’s important to note that every couple’s situation is unique, and there are circumstances where you might want to seek help sooner.

When to Seek Help Earlier

There are several situations where it’s advisable to consult a fertility specialist sooner rather than later:

1. Known Medical Conditions: If you have a history of irregular periods, PCOS, endometriosis, or other gynaecological issues, don’t wait to seek help.
   
2. Previous Pregnancy Losses: Recurrent miscarriages warrant earlier investigation.
   
3. Family History: A family history of early menopause or other genetic concerns may impact your fertility.
   
4. Age Considerations: If the female partner is 37 or older, or if the male partner is more than five years older than the female partner, it’s wise to seek advice sooner.
   
5. Lifestyle Factors: A history of heavy smoking, drinking, or other factors that may affect fertility should prompt earlier consultation.
   

Male Factor Issues: If your partner has a history of scrotal trauma or is experiencing erectile dysfunction, don’t hesitate to seek help.

What to Expect When Seeking Fertility Treatment

When you decide to consult a fertility specialist, here’s what you can expect:

1. Initial Consultation: Your doctor will review your medical history and may order some preliminary tests.
   
2. Fertility Tests: Both partners will undergo various tests to identify potential causes of infertility.
   

Treatment Plan: Based on the results, your specialist will recommend a personalised treatment plan.

Common Fertility Treatments

Depending on your specific situation, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

1. Ovulation Induction (OI): Medication is used to stimulate ovulation.
   
2. Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is directly inserted into the uterus during ovulation.
   
3. In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF): Eggs are fertilised with sperm in a laboratory and then transferred to the uterus.
   
4. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
   

Surgery: In some cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to address specific fertility issues.

The Emotional Journey

It’s important to acknowledge that fertility treatment can be an emotional roller coaster. Don’t hesitate to seek emotional support throughout the process, whether from friends, family, or professional counsellors.

Conclusion

Remember, seeking help doesn’t mean giving up hope for a natural conception. Many couples successfully conceive with the help of fertility treatments. If you’re concerned about your fertility, trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional. The sooner you seek help, the more options you’ll have available to you on your journey to parenthood.

Dr Myran Ponnam-Palam is a fertility specialist offering many fertility services. If you are wanting to know more about your options, please contact our clinic to make an appointment today!

SOURCES:

https://www.pfcla.com/blog/ivf-timeline-how-long-is-the-ivf-process-from-start-to-finish 

https://www.ivf.com.au/treatments/fertility-treatments

https://www.jenniferrobertson.co/blog/professional-help-ttcv

https://www.ivf.com.au/ready-when-you-are

https://www.ivf.com.au/sites/ivfa/files/2023-08/VH102%20Typical%20IVF%20Timeline%20-%20IVFA%2004.08.23.pdf

https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/fertility-tests-and-treatments

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infertility/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20354322

https://www.ivf.com.au/blog/when-to-seek-help-if-youre-struggling-to-get-pregnant