Southern California Reproductive Centers: Understanding Fertility

Definition of Infertility

Physicians frequently refer to the clinical definition of infertility as the inability to conceive after 12 months of frequent, unprotected intercourse. However, age and health factors require some people to seek a fertility evaluation sooner. Symptoms of irregular menstrual or ovulatory cycles, sexual dysfunction, excessive hair growth, or previous pelvic surgery or trauma may indicate an underlying disorder that requires earlier treatment. In addition, because a woman’s fertility declines naturally with age, couples should consider medical assistance after six months of trying to conceive if the woman is over age 35.

Consult one of our fertility specialists if:

  • You’re under 35 years old and have been trying to get pregnant for more than a year, or
  • You’re over 35 and have been actively trying to get pregnant for at least six months

You should also consult a fertility specialist if you currently have or have had any of the following:

  • Multiple miscarriages (recurrent pregnancy loss)
  • Blocked fallopian tubes
  • Ovulatory problems
  • Menstrual irregularity
  • Endometriosis
  • Pelvic adhesions
  • Uterine fibroids
  • Genetic concerns
  • Failure to conceive after three to six months of clomiphene therapy
  • Insufficient sperm
 
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