In this article:
- Frustration that your attempts to become pregnant seem to be sending you on a fast train to nowhere
- Feeling jealous of your friends who are decking up their nurseries, while all you can hope for is a positive result on a home pregnancy test
- Maybe even humiliation, since you've finally reached a difficult decision: it's time to seek more specialised assistance
- But there's one emotion you may need the most: hope. Seeking medical aid for reproductive concerns may also give you a feeling of optimism
What Does an OB/GYN Do?
The abbreviation OB/GYN stands for Obstetrician and Gynaecologist. This specialist is an expert in female reproductive health. When you see your OB/GYN before conception, they may provide you with information and advice on your general health. However, there may be situations when your OB/GYN is unable to assist you with the conception process. For example, if you're over 35, have been trying to conceive for more than a year, or have been diagnosed with a disease that is likely to cause infertility, your OB/GYN cannot assist you beyond that point. They will most likely send you to a fertility specialist for assistance with conception.How Can A Fertility Doctor Best Serve You?
A fertility doctor is an OB/GYN who has received additional fertility-specific training. After completing their OB/GYN training, a reproductive specialist may pursue more studies in reproductive endocrinology and infertility, which might require three to five years of further coursework and research. They may even continue to study each year since reproductive medicine is continually evolving and improving as new information is revealed.Your fertility specialist may detect infertility concerns in both male and female patients, while an OB/GYN specialises in women's reproductive health. Reproductive experts may also develop a more individualised fertility treatment plan based on the cause of infertility.
Factors To Consider
The following are some points to consider while picking between a fertility expert and an OB/GYN.How Long Have You Been Trying To Get Pregnant?
A visit to an OB/GYN is often the initial step in the fertility treatment process.While an over-the-counter urine test, known as an ovulation predictor test, may occasionally be effective, your OB/GYN can examine to see if any other problems are influencing your ability to conceive.
You should consider getting a fertility assessment if:
- You are younger than 35 and have been attempting for a minimum of one year.
- You are over 35 years old and have been trying for six months
Your OB/GYN's Training
Some obstetrician-gynaecologists get additional training to effectively handle individuals who are experiencing reproductive problems.If your doctor is board-certified in reproductive endocrinology, that means, they have received this additional training.
If they haven’t, they could be acquainted with just a handful of the most prevalent reproductive therapies.
If that's the case, you may wish to see a reproductive doctor instead. This is particularly true if previous treatment approaches have been ineffective for you.
A fertility specialist has completed three years of specialised study, including an authorised reproductive endocrinology fellowship programme and an OB/GYN residency.
Your Medical History
If your menstrual periods are irregular or unpleasant, or you have difficulty monitoring your ovulation, you should see a fertility expert rather than an OB/GYN.Other reasons to see a fertility specialist:
- You have experienced more than one miscarriage
- You or your partner had/have an STD
- You or your partner are obese or underweight
Your age
Women over the age of 30 with a history of pelvic inflammatory disease or menstrual cycle issues should consult a fertility expert sooner than the suggested one year.Your Partner's Fertility
Another reason to consult a professional right away is if your spouse has a low sperm count. If your partner's sperm analysis is abnormal, he may be directed to a urologist who specialises in male infertility.FAQs on Fertility Specialists or Ob/Gyn: Which Is Right for You?
- Is an obstetrician the same as a fertility specialist?
OB/GYNs have finished medical school and a residency in obstetrics and gynaecology, but they are not usually specialists in reproductive issues. If you are 35 years of age or older and have been trying to conceive for at least six months, your OB/GYN should recommend you to a fertility specialist. - Does a gynaecologist help with fertility?
A gynaecologist may aid with fertility, but their capacity is restricted. Prenatal vitamins might be prescribed to help you have a healthy pregnancy. They provide hormone therapies to stimulate ovulation, which may help you get pregnant.
