At initially, trying to get pregnant can be exciting. But as a few months go by and no pregnancy happens, the elation turns into concern.
A lot of couples ask the same thing: When should we really see a specialist?
Knowing when to see a fertility professional can help you avoid delays and increase your chances of success.
Let’s be clear about the symptoms that show it’s time to see an expert.
1. You've been trying for more than a year (or six months if you're over 35)
Duration is one of the most essential signs of when to see a fertility consultant.
If you’re under 35 and have been trying for a year without success, it’s time to talk to someone.
Get treatment after six months of trying if you are above 35.
Age has a big effect on the quality and number of eggs. If you wait to evaluate, you may have less options later.
2. Periods that are irregular or missing
Menstrual cycles can tell you a lot about when you ovulate.
If you feel:
- Periods that are quite irregular
- Cycles that last a very long time
- No periods at all
These could be signs of problems with ovulation, which is a common sign of infertility.
Before a woman can get pregnant, she may need medical help for conditions like PCOS, thyroid imbalance, or hormonal abnormalities.
3. Severe menstrual pain or endometriosis that has been diagnosed
Some people think that painful periods are “normal.” But severe pelvic pain could mean you have endometriosis.
Endometriosis can do:
- Change the quality of eggs
- Stop fallopian tubes
- Lower the odds of implantation
An IVF specialist in Kolkata can assist stop long-term damage to fertility by doing an early review.
4. A history of miscarriages
Having multiple miscarriages is very hard on the heart. If you’ve had two or more miscarriages, you should see a doctor who specializes in this.
Some possible causes are:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetic elements
- Problems with the uterus
- Conditions that cause the immune system to attack itself
Finding the fundamental problem leads to better outcomes in future pregnancies.
5. Concerns about male factor fertility
Infertility is not solely a female concern.
If there is:
- Few sperm
- Sperm that don't move well
- Sperm shape that isn't normal
Getting in touch with an IVF doctor early on will help figure out if you require procedures like IUI or IVF with ICSI.
6. Known Health Problems
Some health problems can make it take longer to get pregnant, such as:
- PCOS
- Problems with the thyroid
- Diabetes
- Being overweight
- Fibroids
These are frequent reasons for a pregnancy delay that should be looked at by a doctor.
The sooner these problems are fixed, the better the result.
7. Previous IUI Cycles That Didn't Work
If you’ve tried IUI several times and it hasn’t worked, it might be time to try a stronger treatment.
A specialist can:
- Recheck the diagnosis
- Change the rules
- If necessary, suggest more advanced treatment alternatives
Knowing when to consult an IVF specialist will help you avoid trying again and again without success.
8. You're Planning a Late Pregnancy
If you’re thinking about getting pregnant in your late 30s or early 40s, it’s a good idea to see a doctor early on, even if you don’t have any active infertility symptoms.
Testing for fertility can:
- Check the ovarian reserve
- Check the quality of the eggs
- Give people realistic expectations
Planning ahead is preferable than treating things after they happen.
Why it's important to talk to someone early
A lot of couples wait too long because they’re scared or ashamed.
But IVF isn’t necessarily part of getting evaluated for infertility.
Sometimes, all you need to do is make modest changes to your life, keep note of your ovulation, and obtain some basic care.
The reason to see an IVF specialist is to acquire clear answers, not to have surgery right away.