There are risk factors and signs that could point towards a fertility problem. Sometimes, those signs are unnoticed for months or even years. Receiving help from an infertility specialist is important, but because of those missed signs, some women do not seek help as early as they should. To help you determine if you need to see a specialist, here is what you need to know.
What Are the Risk Factors?
If you have certain risk factors or have signs of fertility problems, you should see an infertility specialist for testing. For instance, if you have a history of irregular periods or endometriosis, you could have difficulties with conceiving. The same is true if you have polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS. The condition can often lead to a hormone imbalance that has an impact on fertility.
In addition to these factors, you should also consider seeing an infertility specialist for testing if you have any of these:
- More than two miscarriages
- Diabetes
- History of fibroid tumors
- Weight problems
- Thyroid problems
- History of cancer
- History of sexually transmitted diseases
Even if you are not experiencing these risk factors, you should still see a fertility specialist if you are concerned that there is an issue.
How Should You Prepare for the Appointment?
Before the appointment, you want to be sure that you are fully prepared for the consultation. You can start by writing down any questions you have for the specialist.
You also need to ensure that copies of your medical records from your OB/GYN and other providers who have treated you are sent to the fertility specialist. This gives the specialist time to review your records and determine if there are additional tests that he or she want to conduct.
In the time leading up to the appointment, start charting your basal body temperature. If you are using an ovulation predictor test, note the results for your consultation.
Now is the time to get familiar with your family's medical history. For instance, did your mother have difficulties with conceiving? Did your sister have miscarriages before she gave birth? Even your partner's medical history matters. Did your brother-in-law and his partner have trouble with conceiving? Family history matters and could point to a genetic issue.
Talk to the fertility specialist's staff before the appointment to learn if there are any other steps you should take before your consultation. Being prepared will help a specialist, like one from Women's Care Inc, reach a determination of whether there is a fertility issue.
