When Is the Right Time to See an IVF Specialist?



When Is the Right Time to See an IVF Specialist?
The journey to parenthood is a deeply personal and often emotional experience. For many, the road may not be as straightforward as expected. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, it might be time to consult an IVF specialist.
But when exactly should you consider seeking their help? Here, we provide insights to help you make an informed decision.
 


Understanding Fertility Challenges

Fertility issues can affect anyone, and they are more common than many realize. According to studies, about 1 in 6 couples worldwide face difficulty conceiving. Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse for women under 35, or after 6 months for women over 35. Male partners also play a significant role, as male factors contribute to infertility in approximately 40% of cases.
 


1. Age-Related Concerns:

  • Women over the age of 35 should seek help sooner rather than later due to the natural decline in egg quality and quantity.
  • Men’s fertility declines with age, though the effects are generally more gradual.


2. Irregular or Absent Menstrual Cycles:

  • Irregular periods may indicate an underlying hormonal imbalance or conditions like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
  •   Absent periods (amenorrhea) could suggest issues such as premature ovarian insufficiency.


3. Previous Miscarriages:

  • Experiencing Multiple Miscarriages points to underlying fertility issues that require specialised care.


4. Medical Conditions:

  • Conditions like Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, or Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) can affect fertility and might necessitate advanced treatment options like IVF.
  • Male partners with a history of Low Sperm Count, Motility Issues, or other known reproductive concerns should also consider consulting a specialist.


5. Unsuccessful Treatments:

  • If previous fertility treatments such as medication or intrauterine insemination (IUI) have been unsuccessful, it may be time to explore IVF.


6. Tubal or Male Factor Infertility:

  • Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes often require IVF to bypass the natural fertilization process.
  • Severe male factor infertility, such as Azoospermia (No Sperm), can often be addressed with advanced techniques like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) combined with IVF.


Conclusion

Delaying consultation can sometimes reduce the chances of success, particularly as age advances.
By seeking help early, you can better understand your fertility status and explore all available options.
If you are trying to conceive or planning your fertility journey, visit Dr Chinmay Pataki, one of the best fertility experts at Isha Women’s Hospital, the best IVF centre in the entire Thane district. The experienced team of Isha Women's Hospital understands the emotional and physical challenges of infertility. The state-of-the-art IVF centre in Dombivali is dedicated to providing personalized care and advanced treatments to help you realize your dream of parenthood.
Take the first step towards parenthood by scheduling a consultation at Isha Women's Hospital. Your journey to a family starts here.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know it’s time to consult an IVF specialist?
Answer: You should consider seeing an IVF specialist if:
  • You're under 35 and haven't conceived after 12 months of trying
  • You're over 35 and haven't conceived after 6 months
  • You’ve had multiple miscarriages
  • You’ve been diagnosed with conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or blocked fallopian tubes
  • Your partner has a low sperm count or poor sperm quality
    Early consultation can save time, money, and emotional stress.

2. Should I wait until all other fertility treatments fail before trying IVF?
Answer: Not necessarily. IVF isn’t always a last resort—it may be the first-line treatment in cases such as:
  • Severe male or female infertility
  • Advanced maternal age
  • Genetic conditions requiring embryo testing
    Your specialist will guide you toward the best plan based on your unique situation.

3. What signs in women indicate the need for IVF?
Answer: Signs include:
  • Irregular or absent periods
  • Known fallopian tube blockage or removal
  • Poor ovarian reserve (low AMH)
  • Hormonal disorders like PCOS
  • Previous failed IUI or fertility treatments
    An IVF specialist can help identify the best fertility strategy.

4. What signs in men suggest it’s time to consider IVF?
Answer: Men should consult a specialist if they have:
  • Low sperm count or motility
  • Abnormal sperm shape (morphology)
  • History of infections, surgeries, or injuries affecting the reproductive system
  • No sperm in semen (azoospermia)
    In such cases, IVF with ICSI may offer the best chance of success.

5. Can I see an IVF specialist even if I’m not ready for treatment yet?
Answer: Absolutely. An early consultation helps assess fertility status, understand your options, and plan ahead—especially if you're considering delayed parenthood or fertility preservation (like egg or sperm freezing).
At Isha Women’s Hospital, we offer comprehensive fertility assessments and personalized care plans.