Trying to become pregnant can bring hope, uncertainty, and stress. If it is taking longer than expected, you do not have to navigate the questions alone. Davie OBGYN offers a starting point for evaluation and guidance about appropriate next steps.
Understanding Infertility
When should you seek help?
An evaluation is generally recommended after:
- 12 months of trying if you are younger than 35.
- 6 months of trying if you are 35 or older.
- Sooner if you are over 40, have irregular periods, or have a known condition that may affect fertility.
You may also seek guidance earlier if you need donor sperm or have other family-building needs. ACOG explains when to begin an infertility evaluation.
What can affect fertility?
Possible factors include ovulation problems, age-related changes, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, uterine conditions, or sperm-related problems. Sometimes testing does not identify a clear cause.
Why an in-person evaluation matters
An app can estimate fertile days, but it cannot assess the fallopian tubes, uterine structure, or sperm health. A clinical evaluation helps choose tests that match your history instead of relying on guesswork.
What to Expect at Your Fertility Visit
- Review your history: Periods, prior pregnancies, surgeries, medications, and how long you have been trying.
- Assess ovulation: Selected blood tests may help.
- Evaluate the uterus and ovaries: On-site ultrasound may be useful.
- Consider other testing: A separate test may assess whether the tubes are open. Semen analysis is important when a sperm-producing partner is involved.
- Discuss referral: Some situations benefit from early reproductive endocrinology care.
Ovarian reserve tests provide limited information about egg supply; they cannot guarantee or rule out natural conception. ACOG describes fertility testing.
Treatment and Family-Building Options
Depending on the findings, care may involve addressing an underlying condition, helping ovulation occur, surgery in selected cases, intrauterine insemination, or IVF.
Some treatments require a fertility specialist. Medicines that stimulate ovulation need supervision because they can increase the chance of multiple pregnancy and other complications. NICHD reviews infertility treatments, and ACOG explains treatment considerations.
Your plan should consider medical findings, time, emotional well-being, and cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do regular periods mean my fertility is normal?
They often suggest ovulation, but they do not rule out other fertility factors.
Should my partner be evaluated too?
Yes, when applicable. Evaluating both partners can prevent delays.
Will I need IVF?
Not necessarily. Appropriate treatment depends on the cause and your circumstances.
Should I wait if my periods are very irregular?
No. Irregular or absent periods are a reason to seek evaluation earlier.
A Local Starting Point for Fertility Care
Davie OBGYN provides board-certified evaluation and guidance for patients in Davie, Cooper City, Weston, Plantation, and Pembroke Pines.
For an emergency, call 911. Not sure what you need? See our patient resource center.
Medically reviewed by Rahil Malik, MD, FACOG, board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. Last reviewed: September 26, 2026. This page is general information and does not replace a visit with your doctor.