WHEN TO SEEK INFERTILITY TREATMENT IN COLORADO & SOUTH DAKOTA
For many couples, the process of getting pregnant does not happen like they imagined. Often times it takes longer and requires more effort than initially assumed. Some couples are fine with waiting out the process, while others want answers right away. This begs the question, “When is the right time to seek infertility treatment in Colorado & South Dakota with Rocky Mountain Fertility Center?”
According to experts, time is the biggest factor when it comes to getting pregnant. Unfortunately there is no specific timetable for women to follow – pregnancy involves several factors including age, current health, medical history, past health issues, and environmental exposure.
Doctors are quick to point out that the older the women, the more time it will likely take to achieve pregnancy. Women have the highest pregnancy rates in their 20’s, and the rate rapidly declines as women reach their 30’s and 40’s. Because many women are waiting until their 30’s and 40’s to conceive, it is no surprise that a lot of woman are having trouble getting pregnant.
A standard rule of thumb for women under the age of 35, with no risk factors for infertility (i.e. irregular menstrual cycles, history of pelvic surgery, endometriosis, history of pelvic infections), should try and conceive for a year before seeking treatment, not much longer. Women over the age of 35 or with risk factors should seek treatment sooner – within six months of trying to conceive. Because many women are waiting longer before having children, it is not uncommon for couples to seek advice from a fertility doctor in Colorado well before the 12-month mark.
When seeing a fertility specialist is important that your male partner is involved. Approximately 20% of couples that seek treatment are dealing with male-related infertility issues. A semen analysis can quickly identify infertility issues related to poor semen quality, and should be one of the first tests to be done.
Factors that Increase Infertility
Factors that adversely impact fertility include:
- Past problems with irregular or missed periods
- Prior abdominal surgery, pelvic surgery or sexually transmitted disease
- Anatomical abnormalities in the uterus or other reproductive organs
- Hormonal disorders such as PCOS
- Endometriosis
Seeking treatment is a big decision for individuals and couples trying to conceive. It is important to first speak with an OB/GYN who can give basic recommendations, do basic testing and may provide basic treatment. If you have failed to conceive after 3-6 months of therapy with the OBGYN its best to seek the care of a Fertility specialist, such as Dr. Smith.