Our Northern Louisiana fertility expert discusses when to see a fertility doctor
If you have been struggling to conceive, the team at ArkLaTex Fertility can help you fulfill your dream of parenthood. David T. Vandermolen MD has provided fertility care to patients for 30 years. Dr. Vandermolen wants to help his patients conceive as soon as possible, so he believes it’s important for them to know when to see a fertility doctor.
Find clear guidelines on when to see a fertility doctor
Many individuals and couples struggle to know when to make an appointment with a fertility specialist. Thankfully, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) offers helpful guidelines on when to see a fertility doctor.
- When the female partner is under age 35, the time to visit a fertility doctor is after actively trying to get pregnant for 12 months without success.
- Because time is of the essence, female patients aged 35 and over should consult our Northern Louisiana fertility expert after six months of struggling to conceive.
- Anyone who knows they have a fertility issue, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis should visit a fertility doctor as soon as they want to try for a baby. This is also true for women who have abnormal periods, including ones that occur too frequently or less often than every 35 days.
Other reasons to consider seeking fertility treatment
Each patient and their circumstances are unique, so perhaps a patient doesn’t fit into one of the categories listed above. The following situations aren’t specifically outlined by the ASRM guidelines. However, they can still warrant attention from a fertility specialist.
- Women who have suffered two or more recurrent miscarriages
- Individuals or couples with genetic conditions that they could pass to their children
- Patients or their partners who have had chemotherapy or medical treatment for cancer
- Those looking to explore fertility preservation options like egg freezing
- Single females who want to conceive or lesbian couples who want to become mothers
- Women aged 35 or older who still desire children but are not yet ready to conceive
- Patients who have had tubal sterilization (tubes tied) and want more children
- Women with risk factors for excessively rapid ovarian aging, including those who have a history of chemotherapy or radiation, endometriosis, or a family history of early menopause or premature ovarian failure
Knowing about the status of your reproductive health can help you decide what to do next. At your first appointment, Dr. Vandermolen will discuss your medical history, order the necessary fertility tests and identify the reason you are struggling to conceive. Contact our office for more information about when to see a fertility doctor or to schedule an appointment.