Becoming a parent is the ultimate achievement for most couples, but often the journey can be unpredictable. The preferred path towards parenthood for women is to conceive naturally.
Uncertainty regarding when to consult a doctor can often arise, especially if pregnancy does not occur as quickly as hoped. A delayed pregnancy or failure to conceive does not automatically mean that health issues are to blame.
There are other factors that influence fertility, too, so when is it best to see a doctor who can offer support when nature fails to fulfil a couple’s dream?
Fertility struggles are very common among couples. Approximately one in eight encounter difficulties when trying to conceive. The emotional toll of these challenges can be substantial, emphasising the importance of seeking support when needed.
Finding help can aid in the search for answers as to why conceiving fails. Certain health problems can be tested for and ruled out that can also affect fertility.
While fertility issues can affect anyone, certain factors increase the risk. The advanced age of over 35 can affect egg quality and quantity. Additionally, medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and male problems such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility can also contribute to fertility challenges.
Those with poor diets who do not get enough nutrients from what they eat on a daily basis are also more likely to encounter fertility issues. This is also the case for those who live a generally unhealthy lifestyle that does not include regular exercise but does include inactivity, high alcohol intake, and smoking.
For those under 35 who have been actively trying to conceive for a year without success, it’s advisable to consult a doctor. For women over 35, a consultation after six months of trying is recommended due to the potential decline in fertility with age. However, if there is a known medical condition that might impact fertility, seeking medical advice earlier is highly advisable.
Doctors can best advise a course of action and possible treatments to help individuals with pregnancy problems. The first step is to book an initial health assessment where overall health can be examined, including medical history and any other lifestyle factors that may hinder fertility.
Fertility tests can help identify underlying issues. For women, this might include tracking ovulation, assessing hormone levels, and evaluating the health of reproductive organs. For men, semen analysis can provide insights into sperm health.
Doctors often recommend changes like maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, exercising, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, which can all impact fertility.
Depending on the diagnosis, doctors might suggest various treatments. These could range from fertility medications to assist with ovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or more advanced techniques like in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
Treating any medical conditions that may impact fertility, such as endometriosis, can be another giant step forward toward achieving parenthood.
Doctors can also help couples understand the risk factors that can impact fertility, such as diet and general lifestyle, which can lead to changes in the attitudes of want to-be parents.
Understanding the factors that influence fertility, the couples at higher risk of being infertile, and the appropriate timing for medical consultations empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward realising their dreams of parenthood.
With advancements in medical science and a range of treatments available, healthcare professionals can play a vital role in providing the expertise and support necessary to help couples overcome fertility challenges and embark on a successful path to eventual parenthood.