Infertility: Understanding the Science, Causes, and Treatment
– Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after one year (or longer) of unprotected sex.
– Infertility can be frustrating and unexpected for couples hoping to become parents.
– Many couples who struggle with infertility end up having children, sometimes with medical help.
– Fertility in women declines with age, so providers may evaluate and treat women aged 35 years or older after 6 months of unprotected sex.
– Couples unable to conceive should consider making an appointment with a reproductive endocrinologist, a doctor specializing in managing infertility.
– Reproductive endocrinologists may also help women with recurrent pregnancy loss, defined as having two or more spontaneous miscarriages.