While all OB/GYNs get a few weeks of infertility training during their residency, a true fertility doctor, or reproductive endocrinology & infertility (REI) specialist, has three years of additional training specifically in infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, and reproductive surgery. Infertility—or the inability to conceive—can be caused by a single condition or a combination of factors that may prevent conception.
Advantages of Working With a Fertility Doctor
Seeing a fertility doctor can help if you are unable to conceive after a year of trying. For women over 35 years of age or older, a fertility specialist should be consulted after just 6 months of infertility. There are many reasons for seeing a fertility specialist even sooner such as very irregular cycles, pelvic pain, genetic disorders, prior pelvic surgery or pelvic infections.
Discover why you’re having trouble conceiving
The most important thing you can do for yourself when you are unable to get pregnant is find out why and as soon as possible. Most fertility treatments are more successful the younger you are so there is no advantage to putting this off. Make an appointment with a reputable fertility specialist to have the workup done. This may include bloodwork, ultrasound, and semen analysis.
Learn more about effective fertility treatments
In addition to helping you obtain a diagnosis, your fertility doctor can also help you make a fertility treatment plan. Many patients think they can do this on their own with doctor google. Fertility specialists have years of training and experience and you are much better off having them assist you with this.
Receive compassionate care from someone specially trained
Fertility specialists and their staff deal with patients all day long who are struggling to conceive. They understand what patients think about and stress about during this process. They have many resources available for patients with specific problems.
Who Should Seek The Services Of A Fertility Specialist?
While anyone can seek the services of a fertility doctor, people who have been trying to conceive for more than a year will benefit the most. Women over the age of 35 and those with known fertility concerns should schedule their first fertility appointment as soon as possible. Men with known infertility or low sperm count should consult with a fertility specialist as early as possible to understand the severity of the male factor and what treatment options are available.
At your first visit, your doctor will review your history and make recommendations regarding testing. Once a diagnosis is made, your doctor will discuss a treatment plan with you. Audubon Fertility has a wonderful team of physicians, nurses, embryologists and administrative staff to assist you along your fertility journey. To make a new patient appointment at Audubon Fertility please call 504-475-1458.