When to Seek Fertility Help: Signs You May Need Specialist Care

Knowing When to Get Support

Fertility challenges are common, affecting 1 in 6 Australian couples. While some people conceive quickly, others may face delays due to age, medical conditions, or underlying reproductive issues. Seeking fertility support at the right time can improve your chances of a successful pregnancy.

Key Signs You Should Seek Fertility Help

1. You’ve Been Trying to Conceive Without Success

The general recommendation is:

• Under 35 – Seek help after 12 months of trying.
• 35 and older – Seek help after 6 months of trying.

If you have irregular cycles or known reproductive health concerns, consider seeking help sooner.

2. Irregular or Absent Periods

• If your cycles are shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days, this could indicate an ovulation issue.
• Missing periods or unpredictable cycles may suggest conditions like PCOS or thyroid disorders, which can impact fertility.

3. You’ve Had Multiple Miscarriages

1 in 5 pregnancies end in miscarriage, but recurrent miscarriage (two or more losses) may indicate an underlying issue like:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Uterine abnormalities
• Genetic factors
• Autoimmune conditions

Early assessment can help improve pregnancy outcomes.

4. You Have a Known Health Condition That Affects Fertility

Certain medical conditions can impact conception and pregnancy, including:

• Endometriosis (affects 1 in 9 Australian women)
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Thyroid disorders
• Diabetes
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

If you have any of these conditions, seeking specialist advice early can optimise your fertility journey.

5. You or Your Partner Have a History of Fertility Issues

• If you or your partner have had previous fertility struggles, low sperm count, or reproductive surgeries, a fertility assessment can identify potential concerns.
• Men account for 40-50% of infertility cases

6. You’re Planning to Delay Pregnancy

• Female fertility declines significantly after 35, with conception rates dropping to 5% per month by age 40.
• If you’re not ready for pregnancy now but want children in the future, egg freezing or fertility preservation can be an option.

What to Expect at Your First Fertility Consultation

At your first appointment, Dr. Ajita Basu will take a detailed medical history, discuss your concerns, and recommend personalised fertility tests. These may include:

• Ovulation tracking & hormone testing
• Ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve & uterus health
• Semen analysis for male fertility
• Advanced fertility investigations if needed

Take the Next Step Towards Parenthood

If you’re unsure when to seek fertility help, remember that early intervention can improve outcomes. Whether you’re facing challenges or just want clarity about your fertility, Dr. Basu offers expert guidance tailored to your needs.