'I'm a doctor and here are the 9 fertility questions I get asked all the time.'

Trying to have a baby can be one of the most exciting times in a couple's life. But it can also be really stressful, especially if conception doesn't happen as quickly as you'd hoped. 

It can leave you with a lot of unknowns — and as with most things in life (altogether now): knowledge is power. So, we asked GP and Chief Medical Officer at InstantScripts, Dr Sarah Cavanagh to answer some your most pressing fertility questions. 

How long should we try to conceive before seeking help?

Generally, if you're under 35 and have been trying to conceive for a year without success, it's time to speak to your doctor, Dr Cavanagh advised. For those over 35, it's recommended to seek advice after six months. 

"There are always exceptions to this rule. If you have irregular or absent cycles, severe period pain, or if your male partner has concerns about his fertility, it makes sense to get an opinion sooner. 

"Fertility can naturally decline with age, so it's essential to get the right support early."

What are the biggest reasons for infertility?

For women, common causes include ovulation disorders like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), blocked fallopian tubes and endometriosis. 

"In men, infertility is often due to low sperm count, poor sperm function or structural issues like blockages in the reproductive tract," Dr Cavanagh said. 

Lifestyle factors can also contribute to infertility. 

"Sometimes, despite thorough testing, no specific cause is found, known as unexplained infertility."

How does my age affect my fertility?

Dr Cavanagh confirmed it's a common misconception that only women need to think about their 'biological clock'. 

"For women, fertility begins to decline in their early 30s and decreases more rapidly after 35, largely due to a reduction in the number and quality of eggs," she said. 

Though the effects are more subtle for men, age can still impact fertility. 

"Sperm quality tends to decrease with age, older men may take longer to conceive, and children of older fathers have a slightly higher risk of genetic abnormalities." 

I have a lot of stress. How much is that impacting my chances of getting pregnant? 

2024 has been a stressful year for many, and trying to conceive can add to that pressure. 

"While chronic stress can disrupt the hormonal balance needed for conception, it's important not to stress too much about feeling stressed," said Dr Cavanagh. 

"Focus on managing stress with healthy habits like regular exercise, mindfulness meditation, or taking time out to connect with those you love. 

"Remember, stress alone is rarely the main cause of infertility. If you feel it is affecting your mental health, talk to your doctor about getting a referral to speak to a psychologist for extra support."

How is infertility even diagnosed?

For women, investigations typically include blood tests to check hormone levels and confirm ovulation, an ultrasound to examine the ovaries and uterus, and sometimes a tubal patency test to ensure the fallopian tubes are open. 

Men usually undergo a semen analysis to evaluate sperm numbers, function and shape. 

"For both men and women, depending on the preliminary results, additional tests might be recommended, including more detailed hormone testing and genetic studies," confirmed Dr Cavanagh. 

What treatments are available for infertility?

"This all depends on the underlying cause," said Dr Cavanagh. 

"There is definitely no one size fits all when it comes to conceiving, so you should speak to a doctor about the best tests and treatment options for you."

InstantScripts is run by Australian-registered doctors, and can give you access to online healthcare from the comfort of home. The convenient service is available from 6am to midnight daily from anywhere in Australia — offering services including telehealth doctor consultations, specialist referrals, blood test requests, online medication prescriptions and more.

What are the risks associated with fertility treatments?

Every procedure, including fertility treatments like IVF, do always come with potential risks. 

"These include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), multiple pregnancies and emotional stress. 

"Your fertility specialist will discuss these risks with you and help you make informed decisions. It's good to remember that statistically, most people go through fertility treatments without serious issues."

Do diet and exercise play that big of a part in fertility?

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can positively impact fertility, according to Dr Cavanagh. 

"Recent studies suggest that reducing the intake of ultra-processed foods, which are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives, may improve fertility. 

"And yes, moderate physical activity has been shown to boost fertility by reducing stress, and helping to maintain a healthy weight range, all of which support reproductive health."

While diet and exercise aren't a cure-all, they can create a healthier environment for conception and pregnancy.

What parts of my lifestyle can impact my fertility?

Smoking is a well-known risk factor, as it can harm egg and sperm quality and reduce the likelihood of conception. Excessive alcohol consumption can also negatively affect fertility by disrupting hormone levels and reducing sperm quality. 

"Maintaining a healthy weight range is important, as the impacts can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect ovulation in women and sperm production in men," said Dr Cavanagh. 

"It’s important to optimise your lifestyle before you start trying."

Check out InstantScripts to request scripts or speak to a doctor. 

Dr Sarah Cavanagh is an employee of InstantScripts, with comments supplied on behalf of InstantScripts. 

This information is general in nature and does not replace tailored medical advice from your own healthcare professional. As with any medical condition, always seek personalised health advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Feature Image: Supplied.