When to consult

See the signs, be taken care of at the right time.

Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after more than 12 months of regular intercourse without contraception in women under 35. Whereas for women 35 years or older,  it's after more than 6 months of absence of pregnancy.

You should not hesitate to consult after 6 or 12 months depending on your age. However, there are certain conditions when it is recommended to consult earlier, such as

  • prolonged menstrual cycles of more than 35 days or;
  • any previous medical condition that you are worried about and that could affect your likelihood of conceiving, in both men and women.

1 in 6 couples have difficulty conceiving. While in 1984 the percentage of infertile couples was estimated to be 5%, this number has risen to 17% today, which represents about 660,000 people in Canada.

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You can talk to your doctor if you’re concerned or contact us directly.

It’s normal to feel sad or bereft when we want to conceive but cannot. Do not hesitate to contact us directly if you’re concerned about one of the following situations:

  • Women
  • Men

  • You should consult us if:

    • You are under 37 years of age and have been trying to conceive for a year
    • You are over 37 years of age and have not gotten pregnant after six months
    • You are over 40 years of age
    • Your menstrual cycle is irregular and is often longer than 35 days
    • You have experienced three consecutive miscarriages
    • You suffered a fallopian tube infection in the past
    • You contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the past
    • You underwent treatment for cancer in the past
    • You have undergone a uterine or ovarian operation in the past
    • You are known to have endometriosis
    • Any other circumstances that lead you to suspect a medical issue might be interfering with your fertility

  • You should consult us if:

    • You have undergone surgery or suffered an injury involving the testicles
    • You suffer from ejaculatory disorder or erectile dysfunction
    • You contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the past
    • You underwent treatment for cancer in the past
    • You have had a vasectomy and would like to conceive
    • Any other circumstances that lead you to suspect a medical issue might be interfering with your fertility

Ideally, ask your family doctor or gynaecologist to refer you to one of our doctors for a consultation at our fertility clinic. Bring a copy of your medical records or send them to us ahead of time. Our specialists will be happy to meet with you and explain the diagnostic approaches and therapeutic options available to you.