Infertility

To test and diagnose infertility in women, fertility specialists may check your ovarian reserve (number of eggs) and look at other conditions—such as endometriosis and obesity—which impact fertility. Testing methods include:

Being unable to conceive quickly or with ease is not uncommon. As many as one in 10 couples fail to conceive within six to 12 months of trying, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, you may want to make an appointment with a reproductive endocrinologist (fertility specialist) if you are:

• Younger than 35 years old and have been trying to get pregnant for a year or longer OR
• Older than 35 years old and have been trying for six months or longer

You may also want to see a fertility specialist if you think that you might have "secondary infertility." This condition may be present if you have already given birth and are:

• Younger than 35 years old and unable to conceive after a year or more of trying OR
• Older than 35 years old and unable to conceive after six months or more of trying

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a woman's ability to conceive begins to decrease at approximately 30 years old. Because of this, and because pregnancies during this time can be high risk for mom and baby alike, this is something you may want to discuss in depth with your fertility specialist.

A specialist will also be able to advise you on your treatment options and their associated risks. Some common infertility treatments include:

When you can't get pregnant, it can seem like everyone else can—but you're not alone. Find a Medical City Healthcare fertility specialist.