When to worry about trouble getting pregnant with female infertility

Female infertility refers to difficulty becoming pregnant or sustaining pregnancy because of factors affecting the reproductive system. Possible contributors include problems with ovulation, the tubes, the uterus, ovarian reserve, or conditions such as endometriosis. Fertility can also be affected by the other partner, so a complete assessment avoids focusing on one person alone. Difficulty conceiving is a reason for evaluation, not proof of one specific cause.

Record periods, ovulation signs, pelvic symptoms, previous pregnancies, operations, infections, and medicines. A clinician may review this history and arrange pregnancy testing, hormone checks, ultrasound, tubal assessment, and semen analysis where appropriate. Bring both partners to the discussion when possible. Results are interpreted together to build a plan that may involve timing, treating an underlying condition, or fertility treatment.

Arrange assessment sooner for absent or irregular periods, severe period pain, known tubal disease, previous ectopic pregnancy, or ovarian surgery. Seek urgent care for severe pelvic pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or pain or bleeding after a positive pregnancy test.

Ask which causes should be checked first, what each test can show, whether both partners need assessment, and how your symptoms and goals affect treatment choices. Ask when follow-up should occur.