When (and Why) to Seek Infertility Support

When (and Why) to Seek Infertility Support

Deciding to get pregnant and grow your family is exciting. But if months go by without a positive pregnancy test, you might start wondering if you’re infertile.

Infertility is an extremely common problem. It affects up to 30% of healthy adults, but many couples that struggle to get pregnant find the experience isolating and confusing.

It’s not always easy to know if you’re dealing with infertility, making it difficult to identify when and why you should start seeking support. Our compassionate team at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta is here to help.

We offer comprehensive infertility evaluations and work with couples to develop infertility treatment plans that fit their unique needs. Take a moment as we discuss the signs that indicate it's time to seek infertility support, as well as the benefits of doing so.

When to consider seeking help for infertility

Experiencing infertility can be stressful and emotional, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here are a few signs that it’s time to reach out for help.

You’ve been trying to get pregnant for a year without success

One of the first signs that it might be time to seek infertility support is when you’ve been trying to conceive for a prolonged period of time without success.

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine defines infertility as the inability to conceive after one year of trying. For women over age 35, infertility may be diagnosed after six months. If you’ve been unsuccessful in trying to get pregnant within these parameters, it may be time to seek the help of a fertility specialist.

You have a gynecologic condition impacting your fertility

You may need to seek fertility support earlier than one year if you have a known or suspected medical condition that could cause infertility. For example, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis may also have trouble getting pregnant.

If you want to get pregnant and you have a gynecologic condition, talking to your doctor earlier rather than later can help you start treatment and improve your chances of conception.

Infertility is taking a toll on your mental health

Experiencing emotional or psychological distress is also a sign that it may be time to seek support. Infertility can be extremely difficult, often leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, and stress for both women and men.

If you or your partner are struggling with emotional distress, or if you’re experiencing relationship problems due to infertility, seeking support can make a big difference for your mental well-being.

How seeking treatment for infertility can help

You don’t have to navigate infertility alone. If trying to get pregnant hasn’t gone the way you expected, schedule an infertility evaluation at OB-GYN Associates of Marietta.

We do a full health workup to diagnose infertility and identify possible causes. Then, we provide expert guidance on the best course of treatment for your specific situation. If you choose to undergo fertility treatment, we can help you make sense of this often-complex process.

Another benefit of seeking infertility support is the opportunity to connect with other people. A therapist or counselor can help you work through feelings of grief, loss, and disappointment. A support group can provide a safe space for you to share your feelings with others who understand what you’re going through.

Seeking infertility support not only provides you with access to expert advice and treatment, but it can also equip you with the tools you need to cope with the emotional impacts you experience. 

To learn more about the infertility support that’s available, call our offices in Marietta or Woodstock, Georgia, today.

You Might Also Enjoy...

How to Prevent or Manage Bothersome Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are a common symptom of menopause, but that doesn’t mean you have to deal with the discomfort and embarrassment indefinitely. Get tips to manage bothersome hot flashes — or prevent them completely — from an expert gynecology team.

Understanding Your HPV Diagnosis

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is extremely common. While most HPV infections don’t cause cancer, certain strains can — and it’s important to learn how to protect your health. Find out what to do if you’re at risk of cervical cancer.

What Is an Ectopic Pregnancy?

For a healthy baby to grow, a fertilized egg must implant in your uterus. But sometimes, eggs implant in your fallopian tube or somewhere else — resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. Learn how it happens and what to do to protect your health.

Can I Get Pregnant if I Have Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of female infertility. But how does endometriosis interfere with conception? And is pregnancy still possible if you have it? Here’s what you need to know about getting pregnant with endometriosis.

Why Does Menopause Cause Weight Gain?

If the numbers on your scale are creeping up during menopause, you’re not alone. Hormonal changes make losing weight harder, but gaining weight doesn’t have to be inevitable. Learn why it happens and how to fight it here.