Have you been trying to get pregnant longer than you expected? What starts as an exciting decision can become stressful and isolating when conception doesn’t happen right away. At Solace Women’s Care in Conroe, Texas, Farly Sejour, MD, FACOG, Natalie Gould, WHNP-BC, and our compassionate team are here to guide you through every stage of your fertility journey.
Approximately 85% of couples conceive within their first year of trying, although the timeline varies significantly based on age, health, and other factors. Understanding what affects fertility helps you know when to seek help and what options might work for your situation.
Women under 35 without known health issues can typically try for 12 months before scheduling a fertility consultation. Women over 35 should call us after six months of trying because fertility declines more rapidly in their late 30s and 40s.
Certain health conditions mean you shouldn’t wait at all:
These situations benefit from evaluation right away, even before you start trying to conceive.
About one-third of cases trace back to male fertility issues, another third to female problems, and the remaining third involves both partners or has no cause.
Problems with ovulation account for many female fertility issues. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, and elevated prolactin levels all interfere with regular ovulation. Physical problems in the reproductive system that create barriers to conception include:
Many of these conditions cause no symptoms beyond difficulty conceiving, which is why testing becomes necessary after trying for the appropriate timeframe.
Low sperm count, poor sperm movement, or abnormal sperm shape all reduce the chances of conception. A simple semen analysis checks sperm count, motility, and structure, and should occur early in the evaluation process.
We start with the least invasive, most informative tests first, such as:
Blood work checks hormone levels that regulate ovulation, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones. We also test for ovarian reserve to assess egg quantity and quality.
A hysterosalpingogram (HSG) uses X-ray imaging and dye to check whether your fallopian tubes are open and your uterine cavity is normal. Ultrasounds help us see structural issues such as fibroids, polyps, or ovarian cysts.
Once we identify the problem, we can recommend targeted treatments, including:
Clomid or letrozole stimulates egg release in women who don’t ovulate regularly. These oral medications work for many women with PCOS or other ovulatory disorders.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI) places washed sperm directly into your uterus around the time of ovulation. This procedure helps couples dealing with mild male factor issues, cervical problems, or unexplained infertility.
IVF combines eggs and sperm outside your body in a lab, then transfers the resulting embryo into your uterus. IVF becomes the recommendation when other treatments haven’t worked or when you have blocked tubes, severe male factor issues, or advanced maternal age.
At Solace Women’s Care, we approach fertility evaluation with sensitivity and thoroughness. Our team helps identify reasons why conception hasn't occurred and creates a plan that meets your medical needs and personal goals.
Call our Conroe office at 936-441-7100 or message us online to schedule your fertility consultation with our experienced team today.
