So, you have been trying - unsuccessfully - to conceive. You are stressed out and you are thinking that maybe it is time to see a specialist. But you are not sure if you should seek help yet...  You’re not sure if you have given Mother Nature enough time...

The good news is that advances in infertility treatment, such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), PGD, donor egg IVF, treatment of ovulatory disorders, Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery  and Robotic Laparoscopic Surgery  have made parenthood more possible than ever before.

It is important to keep in mind that fertility declines with age:

• It is estimated that one third of women delaying pregnancy to their mid to late 30’s will have problem conceiving.
• 50% of women over 40  will experience difficulty conceiving.
• The main reason for the increased risk of age–related infertility in women is the decline in number and quality of their eggs as they get older.
• By age 40, it is estimated that over 90% of the eggs are abnormal.
• The decline in egg quality results in an increased risk of infertility, higher miscarriage  rate and increased risk of fetal chromosomal abnormality such as Down’s syndrome.

So, when should you consider seeing a fertility specialist?

Here are some general rules of thumb.

First, if any of the following conditions applies to you, you should seek help as soon as you notice that you are having difficulty conceiving:

• If you have a history of pelvic infection or endometriosis
• If you have had gynecologic surgery
• If your menstrual cycles are irregular
• If your periods are irregular, unusually long, heavy, or painful

You should seek help if you are:

• Under the age of 35 and you have been trying for one year.
• Between the age of 35-40 and have been trying for six months.
• Over the age of 40 – you should see your doctor without delay.

If you are not having trouble conceiving, but have experienced two or more miscarriages, it is recommended that you seek a diagnosis and treatment from a fertility specialist before attempting another pregnancy.