Understanding Infertility Management: When to Seek Help
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Many couples assume that getting pregnant will happen naturally, but it doesn't always work out that way. For those who are trying to get pregnant, the causes of infertility aren't always clear, and serious issues can go unnoticed for months. Without answers, it's easy to feel stuck and unsure of what's getting in the way. At Lawrence Family Practice Center in Lawrence, KS, we help patients and families take control of their reproductive health with care that's focused, informed, and personal. Working with our team, you can gain insight into the factors that may be affecting your ability to conceive and explore your options moving forward.
What causes infertility?
Infertility can happen for many reasons, and it's not always clear what's standing in the way. Both men and women can face fertility challenges, and often, there are multiple factors involved. Some common causes of infertility include:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Uterine fibroids or polyps
- Irregular ovulation
- Blocked fallopian tubes
- Low sperm count or sperm movement issues
- Age-related factors
During your consultation at Lawrence Family Practice Center, our infertility specialists will review your health history and lifestyle to help pinpoint the challenges you're dealing with and create a plan to optimize your reproductive health.
When should I see an infertility specialist?
If you've been trying to conceive for about a year without success, it may be time to consult an infertility specialist. For women over 35, it's generally recommended to seek help after six months, as fertility tends to decline with age. If you have a known condition like PCOS or endometriosis, consulting a specialist sooner can help address those underlying issues early. The earlier you get clarity on what's affecting your fertility, the more options you'll have to increase your chances of conceiving.
How do you perform fertility testing?
Fertility testing at Lawrence Family Practice Center starts with a relaxed, informative consultation where we'll get to know your personal and medical history. From there, we'll usually recommend tests tailored to your needs, like blood tests to check hormone levels, ultrasounds to look at reproductive organs, or semen analysis to assess male fertility. Fertility testing in Lawrence, KS helps us clearly understand what's causing your fertility concerns so we can create the best possible treatment plan to address your specific situation.
How do you manage and treat infertility?
Infertility treatment varies based on individual needs, and our goal is always to find the simplest and most effective solution first. Many patients benefit from minimally invasive procedures such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), where healthy sperm are placed directly into the uterus to improve chances of fertilization. We also use sperm washing — a simple process that separates healthy sperm from other fluid — to improve sperm quality for treatments like IUI. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments, like diet and stress management, and addressing hormonal imbalances or other underlying conditions, can further enhance your reproductive health and fertility outcomes.
Get support for your reproductive health
Navigating infertility doesn't have to be overwhelming. The supportive team at Lawrence Family Practice Center is here to help you understand your fertility, explore effective infertility treatment options, and support your overall reproductive health. We encourage you to contact our office in Lawrence, KS, to discuss your next steps. We're ready to partner with you on your path to parenthood.