For many couples, starting a family is the ultimate milestone. While most have no issues conceiving and bringing a child into the world, infertility can prevent some women from becoming pregnant. It's more common than people think, with up to 15 percent of all couples in the United States experiencing infertility problems.
Infertility can affect both men and women. However, women can experience infertility from PCOD, ovulation issues and many unseen problems. So when is the right time to get a fertility test?
When It's Time to Seek Help
Anyone can get a fertility test at any time. But failing to conceive after a few attempts isn't a cause for concern. Conception is a complex process, and it's not uncommon for couples to try for months before seeing success.
But healthcare providers recommend fertility testing if women cannot get pregnant after trying for a year. If you're over the age of 35, the standard practice is to explore testing after six months of failing to conceive. That's the baseline recommendation. However, other symptoms may compel you to do testing even earlier.
It's wise to seek testing if you have diagnosed reproductive system issues. For example, infertility from PCOD is often a result of the ovaries producing large quantities of immature or partially mature eggs. Problems with the function of the fallopian tubes and uterus also warrant tests.
Testing is also necessary if you have a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis and other similar conditions. Even sudden changes in menstruation are a cause for concern. Irregular, heavy, or non-existent periods could point to infertility.
What Does Fertility Testing Involve?
A fertility test aims to understand why you have trouble conceiving. Many possible fertility treatments are available to give you the best chance of success. But employing the right treatments for you requires getting to the bottom of the problem at hand.
During a test, fertility experts will discuss your medical history in depth. They may also perform a series of tests. These can include blood tests to check your hormones, pelvic examinations, ultrasounds to look at your uterus and even minimally invasive surgical procedures like hysteroscopy.
Once your provider identifies the problem, you can explore options to address it.
Read a similar article about infertility symptoms here at this page.
