Deciding to start a family is an exciting journey, but for some, it can also come with unexpected challenges. If you’ve found yourself searching for a fertility doctor near me, you’re not alone. Many individuals and couples reach a point where they wonder whether they should seek expert support, especially when conception doesn’t happen as easily as expected. Knowing when to get help is an essential part of managing reproductive health.
What’s Normal When Trying to Conceive?
It’s important to remember that falling pregnant doesn’t always happen immediately. For healthy couples under the age of 35, it can take up to a year of regular, unprotected intercourse to conceive. This is often perfectly normal and doesn’t necessarily mean anything is wrong.
However, age plays a big role in fertility. After 35, a woman’s fertility naturally begins to decline, and by 40, the chances of falling pregnant without assistance are significantly reduced. That’s why:
Women under 35 are generally advised to seek professional advice after 12 months of trying.
Women over 35 should speak to a specialist after six months of unsuccessful attempts.
Those over 40 are usually encouraged to seek help early, sometimes even before actively trying.
These guidelines are helpful, but personal health history and individual circumstances can influence the right time to reach out for support.
Signs It Might Be Time to Seek Help
1. Irregular Periods or Ovulation Issues
One of the most common signs of fertility problems is an irregular menstrual cycle. If your periods are consistently unpredictable, very heavy, very light, or absent altogether, it may indicate that you’re not ovulating regularly. Without ovulation, conception is not possible, making professional assessment important.
2. Known Medical Conditions Affecting Fertility
Certain health conditions can reduce fertility, including:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Thyroid conditions
Pelvic infections or previous surgeries
If you have been diagnosed with any of these, or if they run in your family, early consultation with a fertility specialist can provide clarity and direction.
3. Previous Pregnancy Difficulties
If you’ve experienced multiple miscarriages or have struggled to carry a pregnancy to term in the past, seeking expert advice is a wise decision. Fertility specialists can offer testing to uncover potential causes and suggest appropriate treatments or interventions.
4. Male Fertility Concerns
Often overlooked, male fertility issues can play a significant role in difficulties conceiving. Low sperm count, poor sperm movement, or hormonal imbalances in men may require assessment and guidance from a specialist. Fertility support isn’t just for women—both partners may benefit from expert input.
Why Early Support Matters
Reaching out to a fertility specialist doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll need advanced treatments like IVF right away. Often, early consultations focus on identifying any health concerns, providing advice on timing intercourse, recommending lifestyle adjustments, or offering simple medical treatments to boost fertility.
Even if advanced support is needed later, starting the process early can help improve outcomes. Additionally, some may explore fertility preservation options such as egg or sperm freezing for future family planning.
If you’ve been wondering when to get help, or if you’re feeling uncertain about your fertility journey, speaking with a fertility doctor near me can provide valuable answers, reassurance, and guidance. Taking that first step can give you greater confidence and clarity as you work towards your family goals.
Dr Kavita Maravar’s Practice
The Bond, Suite 4.04,
Level 4/8 Elizabeth Macarthur Dr,
Bella Vista NSW 2153,
Australia
