In Infertility Awareness Month, we want to try to put an end to one of the most repeated phrases in medical consultations: "if I had known, I would have sought help sooner."
Every day we receive many calls from patients who are unsure whether to go to a fertility clinic because they haven't been trying to conceive for very long. Many couples wait years before visiting a fertility center, which affects the success of treatments and the type of assisted reproductive technology we should use to achieve success.
But When should I go to a fertility clinic? Do I need to consult a fertility specialist if I've been trying to get pregnant for more than six months?
Although there's no set timeframe, our recommendation is always the same: if you've been trying to conceive for more than a year without success, we advise you to consult a fertility specialist. If you are over 35 or either partner has a pre-existing medical condition, this period is shorter, and we recommend visiting a fertility clinic within six months of starting unprotected intercourse.
This recommendation is based on the fact that each couple has a 25% chance of achieving pregnancy each month. More than 50% of couples will conceive a child in the first 6 months, and most will achieve their goal within the first year. Therefore, if after 12 months we are unable to achieve pregnancy, it is best to go to a center specializing in assisted reproduction so that they can begin to study our case.
What does the first assisted reproduction visit at Inebir involve?
During your first free visit, one of our doctors will see you. If you have any previous medical records related to your case, we recommend bringing them with you that day so the doctor can review them. We will also perform a complete gynecological examination to thoroughly understand your specific situation.
From this point, we will recommend a series of tests to complete the fertility study. These tests will provide us with a great deal of information about the couple's current situation, and based on that, we will be able to define a personalized plan.
The first visit lasts approximately 90 minutes and you will be seen directly by a medical professional specializing in assisted reproduction. Completely free of charge, you can resolve your doubts and receive valuable information about your current fertility status or, at least, find out what tests you need to undergo to achieve it.
Then, Why do so many couples take years to go to an assisted reproduction center? The biggest mistake is thinking that attending an initial fertility consultation necessarily means undergoing In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment. Many couples don't go to fertility clinics because they only know about the most complex and, therefore, most expensive treatments. However, not all causes of infertility require assisted reproductive treatments: there may be ovulation problems that can be controlled with hormonal treatments, blocked fallopian tubes that may require surgery, and so on. Even when fertility treatments are necessary, especially for young couples, there are other options such as ovulation induction or artificial insemination.
Unfortunately, fertility problems increase with age. The sooner you consult a fertility specialist, the sooner you can find a solution. Tell us about your situation. Request an appointment through our website or call us on 954 302 683.
Remember that we also have a service for free second medical opinion.