One of the most pressing concerns that some women want to discuss with their OB/GYN doctor is fertility. When a woman is of reproductive age and attempting to start a family with children, struggling with infertility can be very distressing. The best course of action is to begin consulting a doctor about fertility and any potential gynecological conditions early on so that you can take action to improve your chances of getting pregnant.
Common Conditions That Can Affect Fertility
While some women are unable to conceive due to genetics or biology, others experience infertility due to gynecological conditions. The most common conditions that patients experience include:
- Endometriosis.
- PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome).
- Fibroids.
- Irregular periods.
- Low estrogen production (common in older patients).
Importance of Family Planning Appointments
If you have any inkling that you may want to conceive a child in the future, it is important to consult your OBGYN about fertility at regular family planning appointments. Start planning as soon as possible to improve the chances of positive results. Your doctor will consult you about your birth control methods, past medical and gynecological conditions, family history, and medications, which can all affect fertility. Your doctor will also check your overall gynecological health with a pap smear and ultrasound at these appointments.
Fertility Questions for Your OBGYN
The first step to resolving any potential fertility issues is to gain as much knowledge about the topic as possible. These are some of the questions to ask your doctor about fertility:
- What is the process of IVF (in vitro fertilization), and when should I consider it?
- Is egg harvesting and freezing the best course of action?
- Can the doctor analyze both egg and sperm count with your chosen partner?
- Is surgery necessary to correct pre-existing gynecological issues?
- What dietary and lifestyle choices could affect fertility?
Get the Women’s Health Care You Need
Women have such unique and delicate needs when it comes to their bodies that they need to see a gynecologist regularly for the best healthcare. If you believe you may be dealing with gynecological conditions that may cause infertility, make time to see a women’s health doctor for testing and treatment.