## When should a couple consider a fertility evaluation?

Community health discussion on TeleHealthCircle.

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 evaluation does not necessarily mean that IVF will be required. Sometimes the next step may simply involve understanding ovulation, reviewing medications, performing basic investigations or addressing an identifiable health concern. The goal is not to create fear. The goal is to replace uncertainty with reliable information. What was the most confusing part of your fertility journey—knowing when to seek hel

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