Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months or a longer period of regular and unprotected intercourse. While the majority of couples are able to achieve pregnancy within a year, approximately one in four couples face infertility issues.
The causes can be categorized into three main groups: about one-third are due to female factors, one-third due to male factors, and the remaining third are either unexplained or involve a combination of both.
When should you seek help if you are struggling to conceive?
This question is to some extent influenced by the age of the female partner, as age plays a significant role in fertility. It is recommended to consult a fertility specialist if you are:
older than 35 years and have been trying to fall pregnant for six months.
younger than 35 years and have been trying to fall pregnant for one year.
How can a fertility specialist help you?
A fertility specialist addresses factors that could influence your fertility. There are medical or surgical treatments for the conditions affecting infertility. Furthermore, Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART), such as invitro fertilization, can be used to achieve a pregnancy.
What to expect when I see a fertility specialist?
If you are struggling to conceive and you have made an appointment with a fertility specialist, you are taking a step in the right direction by consulting with an expert in the field. You might be wondering what to expect.
There will be an initial consultation with our fertility specialist. Females will also undergo an ultrasound scan, which forms part of examining the female reproductive organs. Male fertility can be evaluated through semen analysis. Semen analysis assesses sperm count and function. Your fertility specialist will determine which further testing is needed for female and male partners. All this information will assist your fertility specialist to make an accurate diagnosis, to present you with treatment options.
What can you bring?
- All related medical records
- A list of medication, vitamins, herbs or supplements you are taking
- A list of the questions you want to ask your fertility specialist
