76. When Should I See a Fertility Doctor? And When Should I Go Sooner?

When should you see a fertility doctor? And do you really have to wait 6 or 12 months? In this episode of the Her Fertility Podcast, Jess explains the general fertility-evaluation guidelines, when it may make sense to seek help sooner, what happens during a fertility evaluation, and why making an appointment doesn't mean you're committing to IVF. Pasted markdown

In this episode

01:28 When should you see a fertility doctor?

The 12-month guideline for women under 35; the 6-month guideline at 35 and older; why women over 40 may want a more immediate evaluation; and why these timelines are guidelines, not rules. Current ASRM guidance supports these timing recommendations. ASRM

03:23 When you shouldn't necessarily wait

Irregular or absent cycles, suspected endometriosis, uterine or tubal concerns, possible male-factor infertility, and medical histories that may warrant earlier evaluation.

04:19 What happens during a fertility evaluation?

Medical and reproductive history, potential evaluation of ovulation and ovarian reserve, the uterus and fallopian tubes, and why semen evaluation matters when a male partner is contributing to conception. ASRM recommends parallel evaluation of both partners when applicable.

06:38 Why more fertility testing isn't always better

The problem with ordering every available fertility test; why testing should answer a specific question; and asking what you would actually do differently because of a result.

08:34 “But I just feel like something isn't right”

Making room for intuition without assuming every fear indicates a medical problem; when to start a conversation with your OB-GYN; and one question you can bring to your appointment.