When should I see a fertility specialist vs. staying with my OB/GYN?
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See a fertility specialist if you've been trying to conceive for 6 months (if over 35) or 12 months (if under 35) without success, or if you have known reproductive health conditions requiring specialized care.
When Specialist Care Becomes Necessary
The timing depends on your age, health history, and specific circumstances. Women over 35 should consult a fertility specialist after 6 months of unsuccessful attempts, while younger women typically wait 12 months. However, certain conditions warrant immediate specialist consultation regardless of how long you've been trying.
If you have diagnosed endometriosis, PCOS, irregular cycles, a history of pelvic inflammatory disease, or known male factor issues, specialist evaluation can begin earlier. Similarly, if you're taking suppressive medications that may be masking underlying reproductive conditions, a fertility specialist can help identify and address root causes.
What OB/GYNs Can and Cannot Address
Most OB/GYNs provide excellent general reproductive care, including basic fertility workups and routine monitoring. However, complex conditions like moderate to severe endometriosis requiring excision surgery, advanced PCOS management, or recurrent pregnancy loss often exceed general practice scope.
Many couples spend months or years with general practitioners receiving surface-level treatments when underlying conditions need specialized surgical or medical intervention. This delay can allow disease progression and reduce treatment success rates.
The RRM Approach to Specialist Care
RRM specialists focus on identifying and treating root causes rather than managing symptoms. We evaluate both partners simultaneously, as male factor contributes to roughly 40% of fertility challenges. Our approach emphasizes fertility restoration through excision surgery, endocrine optimization, and cycle-timed natural conception support.
Unlike conventional fertility treatments that often bypass underlying issues, RRM addresses the actual reproductive health problems preventing conception. This may include adhesion prevention surgery, metabolic correction, or cycle restoration - treatments that improve overall reproductive health rather than working around problems.
Choose specialist care when you need cause-based treatment for diagnosed reproductive conditions or after appropriate trying periods, focusing on providers who address root causes rather than symptoms alone.
This information is educational and not a substitute for individualized medical care. Consult your RRM clinician or healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.