Dr. Sudharani Bairraju Podcast

In this informative video, Dr. Sudharani Bairraju, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Infertility (IVF) Specialist and Laparoscopic Surgeon, explains when couples should consider seeking professional fertility advice and what factors may require an earlier evaluation.

For couples where the woman is under 35 years of age, a fertility evaluation is generally recommended if pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse.

For women 35 years or older, it is recommended to seek an evaluation after 6 months of trying, because fertility declines more rapidly with increasing age. For women over 40, earlier evaluation is advisable rather than waiting.

However, couples do not necessarily need to wait 6 or 12 months if there are already signs or medical conditions that may affect fertility.

When should you consider seeing a fertility specialist earlier?

An earlier consultation may be appropriate if the woman has:

Irregular, very infrequent, or absent periods
Suspected problems with ovulation
Endometriosis or suspected endometriosis
Previous pelvic or reproductive surgery
Known or suspected problems with the fallopian tubes or uterus
A history of conditions that may affect ovarian reserve
Recurrent pregnancy loss
Previous cancer treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation that could affect fertility

Evaluation may also be appropriate sooner if there is a known or suspected male fertility problem, sexual dysfunction, or other medical history that could affect reproductive ability.

Fertility is a couple's health issue

Fertility problems are not always related to the woman.

Both partners should be evaluated when appropriate. A fertility assessment may include evaluation of ovulation and the female reproductive system, along with semen analysis for the male partner.

Depending on the individual situation, the doctor may recommend investigations such as blood tests, ultrasound, assessment of the uterus and fallopian tubes, and semen analysis.

Does visiting a fertility specialist mean IVF?

No.

Consulting a fertility specialist does not automatically mean that you need IVF.

The first step is understanding why pregnancy may not be occurring. Depending on the cause, treatment may range from lifestyle and timing advice to medicines, ovulation treatment, surgery, IUI, IVF, or other appropriate options.

The treatment plan should be individualized according to the couple's age, medical history, fertility findings, and reproductive goals.

Don't wait unnecessarily

One of the most important messages for couples is: don't be afraid to ask for help.

Age, menstrual history, previous surgeries, endometriosis, ovulation problems and male-factor fertility issues can all influence how quickly an evaluation should begin. Early assessment can help identify potential problems and allow couples to understand their options.

If you have been trying to conceive and are concerned about your fertility, speak with a qualified obstetrician-gynaecologist or fertility specialist for personalized medical advice.

Key Takeaway

Under 35: Consider a fertility evaluation after 12 months of trying.

35 or older: Consider evaluation after 6 months of trying.

Over 40 or with known fertility-related risk factors: Consider seeking medical advice sooner.

Most importantly, you don't have to wait if you already have concerns or a medical condition that may affect fertility.