When to See a Physician

For the most part, healthy women under the age of 30 do not need to worry about infertility until they’ve been trying to become pregnant for at least a year. After a year without success, women should talk to their doctors about having a fertility evaluation. Men should also talk to their doctors if this much time has passed.

In some cases, women will need to talk to their doctors sooner. Women in their 30s who have been trying to get pregnant for at least six months should speak to their doctors as soon as possible. A woman’s chances of having a baby decrease rapidly every year after the age of 30. For this reason, getting a complete and timely fertility evaluation is especially important.

Certain health issues also increase the risk of fertility problems. Women with the following issues who are trying to become pregnant should speak to their doctors as soon as possible:

  • irregular occurrence or absence of menstrual periods
  • abnormally painful periods
  • endometriosis
  • pelvic inflammatory disease
  • more than one miscarriage

Regardless of your age, it is a good idea to talk to your doctor before you start trying to get pregnant. Doctors can help you prepare your body for a healthy baby. They can also answer questions on fertility and offer tips for conceiving.