When Should You See a Fertility Specialist?

Deciding when to see a fertility specialist can feel overwhelming, but early consultation often makes a big difference. Whether you’re facing challenges conceiving or looking to plan ahead, understanding the right time to seek expert care helps protect your reproductive health and future family-building goals.

Recognizing When Time Is Working Against You

Age plays a major role in fertility. If you’re over 35 and have tried for six months without success, or under 35 and have tried for a year, it’s time to consider seeing a fertility doctor. Specialists can assess ovarian reserve, sperm health, and recommend proactive options like egg or sperm freezing.

Reasons to See a Fertility Specialist

• Irregular menstrual cycles or diagnosed conditions like PCOS or endometriosis
• History of recurrent miscarriages
• Known genetic or medical issues that may affect conception
• Multiple failed IVF attempts or unexplained infertility

Learn more about underlying causes in our guide to female infertility.

What to Expect During Your First Fertility Consultation

Your first visit typically includes:

• Comprehensive health review and discussion of goals
• Diagnostic tests such as hormone panels, pelvic ultrasound, and semen analysis
• Personalized plan based on your unique needs

Choosing the right expert can feel overwhelming, explore this resource that breaks down finding the right fertility doctor, step by step.

FAQs

• How do I know if I’ve tried long enough before turning to a specialist? Generally, 12 months under age 35 or 6 months over age 35.
• What tests should I expect? Hormone panels, ultrasound, and semen analysis are common initial fertility tests.
• Can a specialist help if I already know my preferred path? Yes, they’ll streamline next steps and avoid unnecessary delays.

Consult with a fertility expert today. Contact PFCLA to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward parenthood.