When Should I Seek Help for Infertility?

You should schedule an infertility evaluation at Hill Country OB/GYN if you meet any of the following:

• Women under the age of 35: not pregnant after one year of regular, unprotected sex

• Women aged 35-40: not pregnant after six months of regular, unprotected sex

Women over the age of 40, who have irregular menstrual cycles, or who have a gynecological condition that affects their fertility should get medical support right from the start. This can increase your chance of becoming pregnant and having a healthy pregnancy.

Why is Age an Important Factor in Infertility?

Age affects fertility in men and women, but it’s an urgent consideration for women because the number and quality of their eggs decline with age.

Women are most fertile in their 20s and early 30s. From 30-35, your fertility gradually declines, then after 35, it goes down rapidly. By the time you reach the age of 40, your ability to get pregnant progressively drops every month.

What Causes Infertility?

There are many possible causes of infertility, but in about one-third of couples, a problem is found in the woman. The most common reasons women have a hard time getting pregnant include:

• Ovulation Problems: You may not ovulate (release an egg) due to a physical condition or a hormonal imbalance. Ovulation problems are found in 25-30% of couples who can’t get pregnant.

• Tubal Defect: About 20-30% of couples are infertile due to a problem in the fallopian tubes. This could be caused by scarring, infection, or a failed tubal ligation reversal.

• Endometriosis: When you have endometriosis, tissues that normally line the inside of your uterus grow outside the uterus, where they can damage your fallopian tubes or ovaries. Endometriosis causes infertility in 5-10% of couples.