When to Seek an Infertility Evaluation
Infertility is generally defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. However, the timing for an evaluation can vary based on your age and medical history.
- Under Age 35: We generally recommend an evaluation if you have been trying to conceive for one year without success.
- Age 35 to 40: Because fertility declines with age, we recommend scheduling a consultation after six months of trying.
- Over Age 40: We recommend an immediate evaluation and discussion of your reproductive goals.
- Known Risk Factors: You should seek an earlier evaluation if you have a history of irregular periods, endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or known reproductive issues.
Identifying the Factors Affecting Conception
Infertility can result from a single factor or a combination of issues in one or both partners. During your evaluation, we investigate common female factors, including:
- Ovulation Disorders: Issues with the regulation of reproductive hormones or problems with the ovaries, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
- Tubal Factor Infertility: Damage or blockage of the fallopian tubes, which can prevent the egg and sperm from meeting.
- Endometriosis: A condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus, often affecting the function of the ovaries, uterus, and fallopian tubes.
- Uterine or Cervical Issues: Abnormalities with the shape of the uterus, cervical mucus quality, or the presence of benign polyps or fibroids.
- Unexplained Infertility: In some cases, the exact cause of infertility remains unknown even after a complete evaluation.
Comprehensive Care for the Concerns That Matter Most
Our providers offer a full range of gynecologic services — from routine preventive care to evaluation and treatment of specific health concerns. Click any item below to learn more.
- Annual or “well-woman” exams
- Adolescent gynecology
- Breast exams & breast pain
- Pap smears
- Colposcopy
- Contraception (hormonal and non-hormonal)
- IUD consultations, insertion, removal & management (Mirena, Paragard, Nexplanon)
- HPV vaccination (Gardasil)
- Management of abnormal Pap tests
- STD testing, information, and treatment
Your Path to Answers
To determine the cause of infertility, we perform a series of tests to evaluate the different components of the reproductive process.
- Health History and Physical Exam: A thorough review of your menstrual cycle, past pregnancies, and general health, followed by a pelvic exam.
- Hormone Testing: Blood tests to check levels of hormones that control ovulation and egg quality.
- Ovulation Monitoring: Using blood work or ultrasound to confirm that ovulation is occurring and to track the timing.
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): An X-ray procedure used to view the inside of the uterus and ensure the fallopian tubes are open.
- Pelvic Ultrasound: To check for abnormalities in the uterus or ovaries, such as fibroids or cysts.
Frequently Asked Questions
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