• Source:JND
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As women age, fertility naturally declines, and seeking earlier intervention can improve the chances of conception. Additionally, women with known reproductive issues, such as irregular periods, a history of pelvic infections, PCOS, endometriosis, thyroid problems, or previous surgeries, should consider seeking help sooner. Many couples dream of having a baby, but conceiving can sometimes be challenging due to the rising issue of infertility. A couple should consider seeking medical help for infertility under the following circumstances:

  1. Women under 35 who have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success.
  2. Women aged 35 or older who have been trying for 6 months without success.

Male fertility also declines over time, though typically later than in women. Health and lifestyle factors, such as obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and poor diet, can significantly impact fertility in both partners. Timing and frequency of intercourse are crucial, with intercourse around ovulation being the most effective for conception. Male fertility factors, including sperm count, motility, and morphology, are equally important to address.

The emotional and psychological impact of infertility is another critical aspect that should not be underestimated. Seeking mental health support can be essential during this journey.

Understanding When To Seek Help For Infertility

Why Seek Expert Consultation?

Consulting a fertility expert without delay can help couples take proactive steps toward parenthood. Dr. Mandavi Rai, a Senior Fertility & IVF Specialist at Motherhood Hospitals in Noida, emphasizes the importance of knowing when to seek medical advice. In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Rai explained the timeline couples should follow for seeking help for infertility:

  1. Couples below age 35 should wait for up to a year before seeking medical advice.
  2. Women over 35 should consult a specialist after four to six months of trying to conceive without success.

What To Expect During A Consultation?

During a fertility consultation, the couple will be asked about their medical history, lifestyle, and how long they have been trying to conceive. The doctor may recommend essential tests and screenings to assess hormone levels, ovulation, sperm count, and overall reproductive health. Following the expert's guidance is critical to improving the chances of conception.

Tests and screenings can help identify the underlying cause of infertility, whether it’s hormonal imbalances, blocked fallopian tubes, or sperm-related issues. Once the root cause is determined, targeted solutions can be provided, including lifestyle changes, medications, or assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) such as IVF.

Dr. Rai’s Key Takeaway

Dr. Mandavi Rai emphasises that understanding the factors influencing fertility is key to finding solutions. Both men and women play an equal role in successful conception, and addressing lifestyle or medical issues can significantly improve pregnancy chances. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) provide potential solutions for couples facing difficulties in conceiving.

For those struggling with infertility, remember that you are not alone. Knowing when to seek help is the first step toward addressing infertility concerns. With a tailor-made management approach, couples can approach parenthood with confidence and increase their chances of successful conception. Don’t suffer in silence—seek help without hesitation.