When to See a Fertility Doctor

Deciding to start or grow a family is one of life’s most significant milestones. This choice often brings a mix of emotions—joy, excitement, nervous anticipation, or even anxiety. When the path to parenthood is more complex, it can also bring challenges such as frustration or disappointment.

If you’re among the many individuals in the United States navigating infertility—affecting approximately one in six people trying to conceive—or pursuing parenthood as a same-sex couple, single parent by choice, or with health factors unrelated to infertility, a reproductive endocrinologist can provide the guidance and support you need.

WHEN TO SEEK CARE 

Age is one of the most frequently discussed factors in fertility, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. Generally, individuals or couples under 35 are encouraged to seek fertility care if they have been trying to conceive for one year. For those aged 35 to 40, seeking care after six months is typically advised, and for individuals over 40, consulting a specialist early in the process is highly recommended.

Beyond age, other factors can significantly impact fertility. Those with ovaries who experience irregular cycles, recurrent miscarriages, or conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, or thyroid disorders should consider seeing a specialist early in their journey. Similarly, individuals with testicles who have conditions such as low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, or testicular injuries should seek evaluation without delay. If you’re under the care of another doctor, such as an OB-GYN, urologist, or primary care physician, discussing fertility concerns as soon as possible can be invaluable.

For LGBTQ+ couples or individuals, the timeline to seek care is often different. Since these journeys frequently involve third-party reproduction, such as donor sperm, donor eggs, or surrogacy, consulting a reproductive endocrinologist early on can be critical to understanding the available options and planning your next steps. Whether you’re considering intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or other family-building pathways, starting the process sooner rather than later ensures you have the time and resources needed to achieve your goals.

It’s also important to recognize that fertility challenges aren’t always linked to obvious causes. Even those with regular menstrual cycles or no apparent symptoms can experience infertility, while more subtle factors—such as genetic issues or irregular sperm morphology—often require specialized evaluation. If you’re facing difficulties conceiving, consulting a reproductive endocrinologist can provide clarity and help identify the best path forward.

Every individual or couple has a unique journey to parenthood. At Boston IVF, we offer a wide range of inclusive services, including access to sperm banks, egg donation agencies, and surrogacy support. Our compassionate team of specialists is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you feel supported and empowered as you pursue your dreams of building a family.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

We understand that for many hopeful parents, fertility care may not have been part of the original plan. We also recognize that reaching out for help can be a difficult step, but please remember, you are not alone. For over 35 years, our dedicated fertility specialists have supported thousands of individuals and couples on their path to parenthood, bringing extensive experience and compassionate care to every journey. If you suspect infertility or subfertility in yourself or your partner (if applicable), we encourage you to schedule an evaluation with one of our specialists. Let us guide you as you take this important first step toward building your family.