Seven Signs You Need to See a Fertility Specialist
The human body is prone to fluctuations from time to time. For this reason, many patients struggle to tell the difference between a minor hiccup and a severe signal that they should see a fertility specialist. In my years of practice, I’ve seen firsthand how early intervention can prevent a fertility issue from becoming a more severe problem down the road.
If you have any concerns about your reproductive health, you should speak to your doctor as soon as possible. Don’t wait for these problems to grow more severe out of concerns that you might be perceived as a worry wart. After all, our bodies send us signals for a reason, and feelings of discomfort or irregularity should always be addressed. Today, let’s take an overview of seven familiar harbingers of infertility, most of which can be well addressed through early medical intervention.
Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Irregular menstrual cycles provide valuable insights into your reproductive health. Specialists consider any cycle that deviates from your typical 28-day pattern irregular. If you experience variations in cycle length or unexpected changes in flow, you may be seeing signs of an underlying fertility issue, such as hormonal imbalances or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
You are actively tracking your menstrual patterns to detect irregularities. If you notice changes in timing or flow, contact your healthcare provider.
Age-related Fertility Concerns
Regardless of gender, age plays a pivotal role in fertility. Women tend to experience a more pronounced decline in fertility in their mid-thirties, while men over forty will notice a gradual dip in sperm quality. For this reason, if you or your partner are trying to conceive in your mid-to-late thirties, we recommend seeing a fertility specialist to ensure you can undergo pregnancy safely and successfully.
Thankfully, if you are encountering age-related fertility concerns, a variety of reproductive technologies like In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can help. Couples in America are choosing to have children later in life, and these resources are becoming increasingly common. The first step is always to understand the reality of your specific situation and develop a game plan with your doctors that aligns with your needs.
Unsuccessful Attempts at Conception
Many people falsely assume that conception is easy. A successful conception can often require multiple attempts and careful timing. That said, though, the process should take at least a year. If you have spent twelve months consistently trying to conceive and seen no results, you might be observing signs of a fertility issue.
Once again, help is just a consultation away. If you begin to suspect that your attempts at conception are failing due to infertility, contact your doctor immediately to start identifying your issue.
Previous Reproductive Health Issues
Prior conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or sexually transmitted infections might unknowingly cause problems in your attempts to conceive. If you suspect you have one of these issues or have been previously diagnosed with them, you will want to ensure you have a clean bill of health.
By seeking consultations from experts like the ones on our team at Nevada Fertility Institute, you can make sure your body is ready for pregnancy. We can provide a comprehensive roadmap to get you back on track and advance your goals of growing your family, regardless of your medical history.
Known Male Factor Infertility
Low sperm count, motility issues, or abnormalities in sperm shape usually characterize male infertility. However, signs of male fertility issues may not be immediately apparent. In some cases, you may experience subtle changes in sexual function, testicle pain or swelling, or recurring respiratory infections.
The good news is that while a patient may struggle to detect male infertility initially, the condition is relatively easy for clinicians to diagnose. Treatments might range from medications to dietary and lifestyle choices. If you or your partner suspect this condition is disrupting your goals of expanding your family, communicate those concerns with your doctor or fertility specialists to get tested.
Medical Conditions Linked to Infertility
Diabetes, thyroid disorders, and autoimmune diseases all can impact reproductive health. If you have one of these conditions and begin noticing irregular menstrual cycles, excess hair growth, or unexplained weight changes, you might have encountered a warning sign of infertility.
Fertility specialists like our Nevada Fertility Institute team can help diagnose and manage these associated issues. While certain conditions can impact fertility and make it harder to conceive, proper treatment and lifestyle management can have a profound impact on your reproductive system.
Multiple Miscarriages
Causes of recurrent pregnancy loss can range from chromosomal abnormalities to uterine issues or hormonal imbalances. Investigating these potential triggers is the first step towards finding a solution.
Signs that recurrent miscarriages may be linked to underlying fertility issues include consistent patterns such as recurrent early losses or a history of late-term miscarriages. For couples experiencing multiple miscarriages, seeking specialized care is essential. With its expertise and compassionate approach, Nevada Fertility Institute offers a safe environment for exploring potential solutions and preventing future losses.
Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help
Infertility can be hard to detect at first. Depending on its cause, factors like irregular menstrual cycles, age, previous health issues, or multiple miscarriages can all signal a fertility issue. If you notice these signs, seeking help right away is essential. Fertility specialists like ours at Nevada Fertility Institute can diagnose and guide you through this complex journey.
No matter what, keep in mind that fertility issues are far more common, treatable, and even preventable than you might expect. Through a blend of lifestyle changes, medication, and leading-edge reproductive technologies like IVF, you can develop a solution catered to your best interests.
