How long should you try to get pregnant before you see a doctor? When should you keep going on your own and when should you seek fertility advice?

A woman’s age is the single most important factor affecting a couple’s chance of conceiving.  I would strongly recommend a fertility assessment after 12 months of regular sex without birth control if you are under 35 and after 6 months if you are over 35 and you haven’t become pregnant.

Seeing a fertility doctor doesn’t mean you’re on a fast track to IVF, it’s a way to learn more about you and your partners fertility and your options. I would have a discussion with you about your lifestyle and medical history. I would then suggest fertility hormone testing, an ultrasound to check the uterus and ovaries and a semen analysis for the male partner if you have one.  We would then schedule a review appointment to develop a personalised plan for your next steps.

Of course if you know that you have a pre existing condition that may affect your fertility; endometriosis for example, it would be a good idea to see me sooner.  You might also want to have a consultation with me to discuss pre pregnancy  planning to ensure that you are as healthy and prepared as you can before starting a family.

Find out more about a Fertility Assessment