When To Seek Help If You’re Not Getting Pregnant

It’s not always clear as to when the 'right' time to check in with a doctor about trying to get pregnant is. 

The textbook answers include:

1. Under 35yo and trying for 1 year
2. 35+ and trying for 6 months
3. Lack of regular menstrual cycles
4. Two or more consecutive miscarriages

But truthfully, the majority of couples will be pregnant within 3 to 6 months, regardless of their age.

So for couples who may not fit into any of the above categories—it doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t benefit from a discussion with your OB/GYN or Fertility specialist to help you navigate the #ttcjourney. 

Learning about the menstrual cycle, how to track ovulation and identifying when to have intercourse may help significantly, and can eliminate some of the stress involved. Doing a diagnostic workup to identify potential hormonal issues, and assess your sperm count and ovarian reserve are also key when deciding when to pursue fertility treatment.

Many are discouraged or intimidated at the thought of being “infertile” and what the potential consequences of that diagnosis are. Understandably, many are hesitant to see a fertility doctor for fear of rushing into fertility treatments too soon. However—not all consultations have to lead to treatment! Understanding the anatomy, biology and physiology of the human reproductive system is key—so treat a “check up” or consultation as a class and gain knowledge that could be of use when building your family! 

Although the #ttcjourney may be fraught with peaks and valleys for some, seeking care and guidance doesn’t have to be the start of it. Educate yourself, because #knowledgeispower!

Author

Dr. Nidhee Sachdev Nidhee Sachdev, MD has trained among the most prestigious and diverse medical programs in the country, including fellowship training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the prestigious New York University (NYU) Langone Fertility Center in New York City where she conducted research on preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) and the University of Chicago Medical Center, where she earned the academic distinction of chief resident in obstetrics and gynecology, and trained under a top recurrent pregnancy loss expert. Dr. Sachdev is passionate about providing individualized, collaborative patient care. She started her medical career right here in Orange County, earning her Doctor of Medicine at the University of California, Irvine, School of Medicine.