## When should a couple consider a fertility evaluation?

Community: Sexual & Reproductive Health

Trying to conceive can quickly become an emotionally exhausting cycle of hope, waiting and uncertainty. But when is it appropriate to seek professional guidance? A fertility evaluation may be worth considering when: • pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse and the woman is under 35 • pregnancy has not occurred after 6 months and the woman is 35 or older • menstrual cycles are highly irregular or absent • there is known PCOS, endometriosis or a previous pelvic infection • either partner has a known reproductive health concern • there have been repeated miscarriages • the woman is over 40 and planning pregnancy A fertility evaluation should ideally involve **both partners**. Fertility challenges are not automatically a “woman’s issue.” Seeking an e