Chandigarh: Fertility conversations often begin too late. By the time many couples seek advice, they have already spent years trying on their own, unaware that certain warning signs had been present all along. These signs are not always dramatic, but they are the body’s way of asking for attention.
Dr Rakhi Goyal, Fertility Specialist, Birla Fertility & IVF, Chandigarh, Says,” The menstrual cycle is one of the simplest windows into a woman’s reproductive health. Cycles that arrive unpredictably, or stop altogether, may point to conditions such as PCOS or thyroid disturbances. Neither condition is rare, yet both can interfere with ovulation and make conception unnecessarily difficult if left unchecked”
Pain that is more than “normal”
Some degree of discomfort with periods is expected. What is not expected is pain that keeps a woman from going to work or worsens with time. This could be endometriosis or a chronic infection in the pelvis, both of which can silently reduce fertility potential.
Repeated pregnancy losses
One miscarriage is usually considered unfortunate rather than alarming. But when miscarriages happen more than once, they deserve careful evaluation. There may be structural issues with the uterus, genetic causes, or blood-clotting problems at play. Early investigations help couples move forward with better clarity and tailored care.
Concerns in males
It is easy to assume that fertility challenges impact woman, when in reality male factors contribute in nearly half of cases. Men with low libido, erectile difficulties, or a history of testicular injury should not delay semen analysis. It is a straightforward test and often provides the missing piece of the puzzle.
Broader health influences
Long-standing conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or autoimmune diseases quietly affect fertility in both men and women. Sometimes it is the illness itself, sometimes the medication prescribed. Optimising general health often goes hand in hand with improving fertility prospects.
Why early testing matters
Delays in acknowledging these red flags often lead couples to seek help only after years of unsuccessful attempts. Fertility declines naturally with age, but underlying issues compound that decline if left unchecked. Early testing does not necessarily mean moving directly to advanced treatments; it means understanding one’s reproductive health, correcting what can be corrected, and planning with realistic timelines.
Fertility care is not about creating fear; it is about creating awareness. The earlier couples listen to what their bodies are signalling, the more options they have at their disposal, and the stronger their chances of achieving the family they envision.
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