She truly values the personal and unique concerns of an individual patient.
She truly values the personal and unique concerns of an individual patient.
She truly values the personal and unique concerns of an individual patient.
Infertility is the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. For women aged 35 or older, an evaluation is usually advised after 6 months, and sooner if there are known concerns. The cause may lie with the woman, the man, both partners, or remain unexplained, which is why both partners are often assessed.
Evaluation identifies what may be affecting conception. It usually includes a detailed history, a pelvic ultrasound, tests to check ovulation and hormone levels, an assessment of the fallopian tubes and uterus, and a semen analysis for the partner. Tests are chosen for your situation rather than ordered all at once.
If ovulation is irregular or absent, as can happen with PCOS or thyroid problems, medicines may be used to encourage the release of an egg. Treatment is paired with ultrasound monitoring of follicle growth, which helps time intercourse and reduces the chance of overstimulation or multiple pregnancy. See ovulation induction.
When first-line treatment has not worked, or tests show a more complex cause, further options may be discussed, such as referral to a trusted assisted-reproduction centre when needed. Each step is explained, including its benefits, limits and realistic chances for your situation. Explore advanced infertility support.
Fertility care often overlaps with other conditions. PCOS, fibroids and cysts are addressed under gynecology services, including fibroid and cyst management. When a uterine or tubal problem is suspected, diagnostic laparoscopy or hysteroscopy can give a direct view. Once you conceive, early antenatal care begins with the same doctor.
In women, these include irregular ovulation, PCOS, thyroid disorders, endometriosis, blocked tubes, uterine fibroids or polyps, and age-related decline in egg quality. In men, causes include low sperm count, poor sperm movement or shape, and lifestyle factors. Sometimes no clear cause is found. Finding the cause is not about blame; it guides the right treatment.
Consider a consultation if you have been trying to conceive for 12 months, or 6 months if you are 35 or older. Seek advice earlier if your periods are irregular, absent or very painful, if you have had pelvic infection, pelvic surgery, an ectopic pregnancy or two or more pregnancy losses, or if your partner has a known semen problem. You do not have to wait until you feel ready to give up on trying naturally.
The first visit is a conversation: how long you have been trying, cycle dates, past illnesses and surgeries, medicines and lifestyle. Bring earlier reports and, if possible, your partner. An examination or scan is done only with your consent. You will leave with a clear list of tests, an explanation of what each one shows, and a sense of the next steps.
After 12 months of trying without success, or after 6 months if the woman is 35 or older. Earlier if there are irregular periods, previous pelvic problems, repeated pregnancy loss or a known male factor.
No. Male factors contribute in a substantial share of couples, so semen analysis is an early and simple test. Both partners are usually evaluated.
Commonly a pelvic ultrasound, ovulation and hormone tests, a check of the fallopian tubes and uterus, and semen analysis. Your doctor selects tests based on your history.
PCOS can cause irregular ovulation, which makes conception harder. It is often manageable with lifestyle changes and ovulation-inducing medicines, and many women with PCOS conceive with appropriate care.
Medicines that encourage the ovaries to release an egg, with ultrasound monitoring to track response and reduce risks such as multiple pregnancy.
No. Many couples conceive after correcting an underlying problem or with simpler treatment. IVF is considered only when other options are unsuitable or unsuccessful.
They can support it. Healthy weight, balanced diet, regular activity, not smoking, limiting alcohol and managing stress help both partners, though they may not replace medical treatment.