When to seek help

For women younger than 35 years of age who are otherwise healthy with no apparent cause of infertility or subfertility, medical practitioners recommend trying to conceive for atleast 12 months before seeking help. In most of these cases, they do conceive within the first year of trying.

As ovarian reserve is known to diminish with age, women older than 35 years are advised to consult a fertility specialist if they are unable to conceive after 6 months of regular unprotected intercourse.

Becoming pregnant beyond the age of 40 can be very challenging and is associated with an increased risk of pregnancy complications. Women over the age of 40 years are advised to consult a fertility specialist before trying to conceive.

Women who are underweight or overweight may have a harder time conceiving and should consult a gynaecologist or fertility specialist before trying to conceive.

Abnormal thyroid function can directly impact female fertility as it is closely linked to hormone levels. Visiting a fertility specialist to bring these issues under control can increase the chances of conception and a healthy pregnancy.

Women with known ovulation or menstrual disorders like PCOD or endometriosis must not delay pre-conception help. Many of these disorders like endometriosis are progressive in nature and should be evaluated sooner rather than later.

Women who have had or currently have any infection like Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, sexually transmitted infections, and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease can have scarring in their uterus, fallopian tubes, and other parts of their reproductive system. These issues must be diagnosed early for effective treatment.

The term “Recurrent miscarriages” is defined as two or more consecutive pregnancy losses. In some cases, this can be the result of an abnormality in the uterus and hormone abnormalities. Fertility investigations like an ultrasound can help in identifying and treating such issues.

In case of persistent and recurrent problems with libido and sexual function, a basic fertility evaluation is advised preconception.

Several factors can contribute to recurrent IVF or IUI failures including issues like tubal infertility. A detailed investigation by fertility specialists can give valuable insight regarding the causes of failure.