What Is Infertility?

When a person’s reproductive system makes it a challenge to conceive children, the health community refers to this condition as infertility. In many cases, a fertility specialist can help a person or couple trying to conceive to do so successfully, even with a diagnosis of infertility. Infertility is not uncommon, since approximately 15% of couples in the United States experience some form of this condition.

When Is It Time To See A Fertility Specialist?

About 1 in 7 couples in the U.S. experience significant challenges when trying to conceive. If you’ve been trying to have a baby but haven’t yet received positive test results from a pregnancy test, it may be time to consult with a fertility specialist.

These are some of the most common reasons to see fertility specialists:

• Inability To Conceive After Months Of Trying: For those under 35 years old, it may be time for an appointment if conception hasn’t happened after a year of trying (and for those over 35 years old, after six months of trying)
• Trying To Conceive After 40: If you are 40 years or older, a fertility specialist can increase your chances of getting pregnant 
• When Certain Medical Conditions Are Present: If you have endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), uterine fibroids, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), or similar conditions, consulting with a fertility specialist can be very helpful
• Prior Miscarriages: If you’ve experienced two or more miscarriages, a fertility specialist may be able to assess your medical history and help reduce the risk of future miscarriages
• Irregular Periods: When periods are infrequent, not on a regular cycle, heavy, painful, or irregular in any way, getting pregnant can be challenging‍
• Presence Of Male Reproductive Disorders: If either you or your partner has been diagnosed with erectile dysfunction, undescended testicles, varicocele, or any reproductive disorders or issues, it’s time to see a fertility specialist

Additional reasons to see fertility specialists include the presence of a thyroid condition, starting menopause early, a history of multiple pelvic surgeries, or an abnormal sperm analysis.

Couples who are worried about certain genetic conditions that run in either side of the family may also want to consult with a fertility specialist to have these concerns addressed.

How A Fertility Specialist Can Help

A fertility specialist can dispel myths about getting pregnant and provide information, recommendations, and actionable steps to make it easier to get pregnant, even when some form of infertility is present.

Fertility specialists can assist with any of the following:

• Exploring and determining why you’re having difficulties getting pregnant
• Figuring out ways to optimize your fertility to get pregnant
• Establishing if there is a cause of infertility present 
• Providing the right fertility treatment based on each couple’s case

Think of a fertility specialist as a valuable resource you can turn to for help with getting pregnant. They are there to serve as your advocate in your journey to start or grow your family.

If This Is Your First Fertility Clinic Visit

To prepare for your first visit, follow your clinic’s guidance, which may include the following steps:

• Review your medical history, since the health information you and your partner provide can help your fertility specialist better understand your situation
• Get a list of questions ready; take the opportunity to tap into the specialist’s expertise
• Take steps to relax before your visit to help you make the most of your consultation

More from Orchid Guides

We offer a wide range of helpful guides designed to provide couples with fertility information to make it easier to conceive. Topics we cover include fertility preservation, preconception genetic testing, getting pregnant after stopping birth control, tips for a healthy pregnancy, and much more.

If you are planning on starting or growing your family, check out our expert guides on all things genetics and fertility. Today, advanced genetic screening is now available to couples who want their child to have the best shot of a healthy life. Explore how Orchid helps you conceive with confidence.