Fertility Specialists

Find a Fertility Specialist

At what point does a person become concerned with his/her inability to conceive or maintain a pregnancy? The general rule at present is this: if you’ve been unable to conceive after a year of intercourse, you should seek assistance. If you are approaching your mid-30’s or beyond, you should instead wait only six months before asking for help. So, you’ve armed yourself with information, and you’re ready to go -- if, after following all of the suggestions you’ve read and heard, you do not become pregnant after one year (for women under 30) or six months (for women over 30), it’s time to take it to a specialist.

While most women’s first discussion regarding possible infertility takes place in their regular OB/Gyn’s office, be prepared to seek more specialized assistance. While some OB/Gyn’s may "specialize" in fertility issues, that may not mean that they are up on the latest in reproductive medicine. It could simply mean that they have attended additional seminars on related topics. Know your specialists and understand which ones are right for your needs.

Generally, the growing trend is to seek assistance from a Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE). If, however, you are one of many who do not live conveniently located to one, or your insurance balks at covering an RE’s services, you may need to become even more of an advocate for yourself.

Like many syndromes, disorders, and diseases, infertility can be a maze of questions. A tiny bit of new information can lead to another avenue to venture down. This can be frustrating, but finally seeing answers after your search will make the journey feel worthwhile. Approach your communications with medical providers with a sense of learning, and you should find yourself in a smoothly working relationship.

Many causes of infertility are treatable, and with our rapidly advancing medical technology, even "unexplained" infertility may some day be explained and treated, also. Having a trusting, comfortable relationship with your medical provider is essential to your own ability to persevere through testing and treatment.

Find a Fertility Specialist.

Contributing author: TL Morris

Credits: TL Morris