Infertility Specialist

When should I get help for infertility?

While you can contact Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, any time you’re concerned or have questions about infertility, it takes most couples up to a year to get pregnant. So, when should you seek help for possible infertility? Here are three guidelines:

Younger than 35

If you’re younger than 35 and have regular, unprotected intercourse for a year without getting pregnant, it’s time to schedule an infertility evaluation.

Between the ages of 35 and 40

Women in this age group should get an infertility evaluation after six months of unprotected intercourse.

Over the age of 40

If you’re over the age of 40 or you have a condition that affects your ability to get pregnant, you should consider getting an evaluation as soon as you decide to have a baby.

What causes infertility in women?

Infertility in women most often occurs due to:

Ovulation problems

Though several health conditions prevent your ovaries from releasing an egg (ovulating), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common problem.

Fallopian tube blockages

Sperm can only fertilize your egg when it’s in the fallopian tube. Any problem that blocks the tube stops sperm from meeting the egg and causes infertility. Fallopian tube blockages often develop from an infection, scarring, or tubal ligation (having your tubes tied).

Endometriosis

When you have endometriosis, pieces of the inner uterine lining get outside the uterus, attach to the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or outer uterine wall, and keep growing. These patches cause infertility as they lead to scarring or distort the shape of your uterus.

Other health conditions

Uterine fibroids, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune diseases are a few examples of health conditions that cause infertility.

How is infertility treated?

After a thorough physical evaluation, your Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, provider performs one or more diagnostic tests to determine the cause of your infertility. For example, you may have an ultrasound, diagnostic laparoscopy, a hysterosalpingogram, or hysteroscopy.

The team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, treats infertility with aggressive ovulation enhancement using fertility drugs. They also perform intrauterine insemination, which involves placing your partner’s sperm directly into your uterus near the fallopian tube opening.

They have a visiting reproductive endocrinologist when you need specialized expertise. Your provider coordinates your care with your endocrinologist by providing tests and ultrasound studies.

If you need help with infertility, call Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, or book an appointment online today.