It’s tempting to ignore a suspected medical problem – some of us even wait for symptoms to build up and get worse over time. From little annoyances to bigger issues that could change our lives, ignoring a potential health problem is something we so often regret – but only after putting off going to the doctor.
One significant concern that is so often ignored, put off or disregarded is fertility. Couples trying to conceive for six months to a year or more may have a sense that a fertility issue could be present but genuinely fear confirmation from a physician.
We completely understand this position. Some couples and individuals are aware of fertility concerns before they try to conceive but many are taken by surprise that conception hasn’t occurred within the expected timeline. Overcoming any fear or apprehension you may feel should be done at your own pace, as rushing into fertility testing and possible treatment adds stress to an already complex situation. However, the appropriate diagnosis and treatment can help you begin your family-building journey.
Fertility Solutions has outlined five key reasons to take control of your fertility and visit a specialist.
- Time is (typically) of the essence – In cases where infertility is due to a female factor issue, the age of the female patient is important. Unfortunately, the quality and quantity of viable eggs decreases as women age, so there can be a significant difference in the ability to conceive within the space of only a few years. The longer you wait to consult with a specialist, the more you risk the inability to conceive with less involved (and sometimes less costly) assisted reproductive methods, such as fertility medication or intrauterine insemination (IUI) instead of in vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg donation. Of course, your diagnosis will ultimately determine any fertility treatment plan.
- Fertility care is more affordable than ever – Thanks to technological advancements, changes to insurance plans, amendments to state laws and the growing popularity of fertility treatment, the overall cost to patients is generally less than it was 10 years ago. Additionally, many fertility centers offer affordable pricing options, including treatment packages, discounts and special offers.
- There are options aside from IVF – IVF is generally the most well-known fertility treatment to those new to or unfamiliar with the infertility community, but it is by no means the treatment that works for everyone. Every case is different: some couples may need IVF, while others can conceive with fertility medication or IUI. Some couples may require an egg or sperm donor, whereas others are able to conceive but cannot carry a pregnancy to term, so they need a surrogate.
- You’re certainly not alone – One in eight American couples struggle to conceive, according to Resolve, the National Infertility Association. Because of this, there are plenty of couples and individuals out there who can testify to the success of a certain medical group or agency. There are certainly testimonials from other fertility patients who have visited with the fertility center of your choice.
- Dedicated, personalized care is available – The status of your fertility can be deeply personal and the last thing any patient wants is to feel shuffled from doctor to doctor within a practice when they are simply trying to get test results or undergo an ultrasound. At Fertility Solutions, our physicians offer the direct care needed by those trying to build their family. Patients receive test results from their physician, not another member of staff, and ultrasounds will be performed by the doctor assigned to your case.