Infertility is generally defined as the inability to achieve a
pregnancy after one year of regular intercourse without contraception.
Despite this general definition, an evaluation may be appropriate
before a full year has passed. This decision depends on the couple's
situation. For example, if the woman is older than 35 or 40 it
may be prudent to check a basic evaluation soon after deciding
to have a baby. If the husband has had a vasectomy, or the wife
a tubal ligation, then consultation and consideration of treatment
options does not need to be delayed. If the woman desiring fertility
has very irregular or no menstrual cycles then immediate consideration
of diagnostic tests and treatment is appropriate.
Recurrent pregnancy losses (miscarriages) are sometimes considered
a part of infertility since the couple is not able to carry a
pregnancy to viability. Once a couple has had two or three consecutive
pregnancy losses, it is appropriate to consider a thorough evaluation.
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