Table of Contents
Fertility is something many couples don’t think about until they start trying to have a baby. For some, pregnancy happens naturally within a few months. For others, the process can be longer and more challenging. If you’ve been trying without success, it is important to know when is the time to seek help from a fertility specialist.
At Kamna Fertility Clinic, Gurgaon, we understand that every couple’s journey is unique. Infertility is not always obvious, but there are certain signs and symptoms that can point to a fertility problem. Recognizing these signs early can save time, reduce emotional stress, and improve your chances of successful treatment.
Here, we explain the key signs of infertility in simple points so you know when to book an appointment with a fertility expert.
1. Trying for Over a Year Without Success
If you are under 35 years old and have been having regular, unprotected intercourse for more than a year without conceiving, it is a good idea to consult a fertility specialist.
For women over 35, this time frame is shorter — just 6 months — because fertility naturally declines with age.
2. Irregular Menstrual Cycles
A normal menstrual cycle is usually between 21 and 35 days. If your periods are unpredictable or skip months, it could mean you are not ovulating regularly.
Conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or hormonal imbalances can cause irregular cycles and affect fertility.
3. Very Heavy or Very Light Periods
If your bleeding is unusually heavy, it could indicate conditions such as fibroids, endometriosis, or hormonal issues.
Extremely light bleeding might suggest low estrogen levels or poor uterine lining development, which can make it harder for an embryo to implant.
4. Severe Period Pain
Mild cramps during menstruation are common, but if you have severe pain that disrupts your daily activities, it may point to endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease.
Both of these conditions can cause organ damage and scarring which can affect the chances of conception.
5. No Periods at All
Amenorrhea — the absence of periods — can be caused by hormonal problems, extreme weight changes, stress, underlying medical conditions or damage to the uterine lining.
If you miss three or more periods in a row and are not pregnant, it is important to seek medical help.
6. Pain During Intercourse
Painful sex (dyspareunia) can be linked to endometriosis, pelvic infections, or vaginal conditions.
Such issues can not only affect intimacy but also indicate underlying problems that reduce fertility.
7. History of Pelvic Infections or STIs
Sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), leading to blocked fallopian tubes.
Even if symptoms were mild in the past, untreated infections can have long-term effects on fertility.
8. Previous Miscarriages
Having two or more miscarriages may indicate problems such as genetic issues, hormonal imbalance, uterine abnormalities, or clotting disorders.
A fertility specialist can run detailed tests to find the cause and help you plan a safe pregnancy.
9. Known Uterine or Tubal Problems
If you have been diagnosed with fibroids, uterine septum, polyps, or blocked fallopian tubes, getting specialist care early is important.
These structural issues may need surgical correction or advanced fertility treatments like IVF.
10. Age Over 35 for Women
Female fertility starts to decline more rapidly after age 35 because the number and quality of eggs decrease. This does not mean that pregnancy is impossible, but it does mean that you may need help sooner rather than later.
11. Age Over 40 for Men
Fertility in men also declines with age, though more gradually. Sperm quality and motility decline after 40 affecting the chances of natural conception.
12. Abnormal Semen Analysis
For couples who have already had a semen analysis, issues like low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal shape can point to male infertility.
These problems can often be treated or bypassed with advanced techniques like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).
13. Hormonal Symptoms in Women
Excess facial or body hair, severe acne, sudden weight gain, or hair thinning may indicate hormonal problems like PCOS.
Hormonal imbalances can stop ovulation and make it harder to conceive.
14. Hormonal Symptoms in Men
Low libido, difficulty achieving or maintaining erections, breast enlargement, or reduced facial hair growth may signal low testosterone or other hormonal disorders.
These should be evaluated early, as they can impact sperm production.
15. History of Cancer
Chemotherapy, radiation, and some surgeries can affect fertility in both men and women.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you must discuss ways to preserve future fertility with a fertility specialist along with your oncologist. This can keep your hope of parenthood alive even after cancer treatment. The options include IVF and egg freezing in women and sperm freezing in men.
16. Significant Weight Changes
Being significantly overweight or underweight can disrupt normal hormonal function and ovulation.
Achieving a healthy weight can often improve fertility, but medical guidance is needed if weight changes haven’t restored normal cycles.
17. Chronic Medical Conditions
Conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, lupus, or autoimmune diseases can affect reproductive health.
Managing these conditions alongside fertility care improves your chances of a successful pregnancy.
18. Family History of Early Menopause
If your mother or sister experienced menopause before the age of 40, you may have a higher risk of diminished ovarian reserve.
Testing can help determine your egg count and guide your family planning timeline.
19. Erectile Dysfunction or Ejaculation Problems
In men, difficulty with erections or ejaculation can prevent sperms from reaching the egg.
Specialist evaluation can identify whether the cause is physical, hormonal, or psychological, and treatments are available.
20. Exposure to Reproductive Toxins
Long-term exposure to pesticides, chemicals, radiation, or high heat (such as in certain occupations) can harm sperm and egg health.
A fertility doctor can advise on reducing risks and improving reproductive potential.
Why Early Consultation Matters
Fertility problems can have many causes, and some are easier to treat when identified early.
Waiting too long may reduce the chances of successful treatment, especially when age-related decline is a factor.
What to Expect When You See a Fertility Specialist at Kamna Fertility Clinic
We begin with a detailed medical history for both partners.
Blood tests and scans are done to assess hormone levels, egg reserve, uterine health, and sperm quality.
Based on results, we design a personalized treatment plan, which may include ovulation induction, intrauterine insemination (IUI), IVF, or other advanced techniques.
Tips for Boosting Fertility Naturally While You Seek Help
Eat a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
Exercise moderately, avoiding both a sedentary lifestyle and extreme overtraining.
Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake, as both can harm egg and sperm health.
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises.
Get regular sleep, as poor sleep patterns can disrupt hormones that regulate fertility.
The Bottom Line
Infertility can be caused by many factors, and in many cases, it is treatable. The most important step is knowing when to seek help.
If you recognize any of the signs mentioned above, it is time to consult a fertility specialist. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment can make all the difference in your journey to parenthood.
📍 Kamna Fertility Clinic, Gurgaon
📞 +91 7042030555
📧 kamnafertility@gmail.com
