What Is A Gynaecologist?

Gynaecology is defined as the medical practice concerning the health of the female reproductive system. Your gynae would be in charge of reproductive and sexual health. This should include cancer screenings, pap smears, pelvic exams, and the testing and treatment of vaginal infections.

Additionally, you will find that your gynaecologist should also be handling any reproductive system disorders. For example, endometriosis, pelvic pain, ovarian cysts, and infertility.

When Should You See A Gynaecologist?

Typically, you would find yourself making an appointment with a gynaecologist if you suffer from persistently painful and heavy periods, unusual bleeding, and sexually transmitted infections,

Additionally, you would also see a gynaecologist if you are facing fertility or pregnancy issues.

If you are or wish to get pregnant, you may visit your gynaecologist for:

• help planning for your pregnancy
• prenatal care
• infertility treatment
• advice on diet
• labor and birthing options
• genetic testing and screenings
• advice on breast-feeding
• postpartum depression

Seeing A Gynaecologist For Fertility Reasons : What To Expect

Assessing Your Medical History

A gynaecologist will begin by assessing your complete medical history. A gynaecologist  will often do a full testing panel to learn the cause of the infertility and assess your reproductive potential. Your doctor may conduct hormone tests on the third day of your menstrual cycle. These include follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and anti-Mullerian hormone tests. The results will determine the capacity of eggs in your ovaries.

Difference Between A Gynaecolgist And A Fertility Specialist

What Is a Fertility Specialist?

A fertility specialist sometimes referred to as an infertility specialist, is a medical professional who is responsible for evaluating an individual to determine the cause of their infertility.

In other words, a fertility expert is available to help both you and your partner determine what may be preventing you from conceiving.

When Should I See a Fertility Specialist?

1. Age

In general, a couple who has been actively trying to get pregnant for 12 months with no luck, should consult with a fertility expert. However, this applies to women who are under 35 years of age.

If you are over the age of 35, you should consult a fertility specialist if you have been actively trying to conceive for 6 months without success. Additionally, women over the age of 40 are considered to be attempting a high-risk pregnancy. As such, you should consult with a fertility specialist before embarking on your journey to conception.

2. Miscarriage

If you have had two or more miscarriages, it may be wise for you to consult with a fertility expert who will be able to help monitor your health as you are trying to get pregnant. Additionally, a fertility specialist may be able to determine any underlying issues that are making it difficult for you to carry a pregnancy to term.

3. A History of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

If you or your partner have a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), you may want to consult a fertility expert if you are trying to become pregnant. Unfortunately, STIs can make it challenging to conceive.

Women may experience scarring of the fallopian tubes - deterring the egg and the sperm from coming together. On the other hand, men with a history of STIs may experience decreased sperm mobility, count, and function.

A fertility specialist will be able to identify problems that may be making it difficult to successfully conceive and guide you towards the steps you can take moving forward.

4. Chronic Medical Conditions

Should you suffer from a chronic medical condition, consult with a fertility specialist before you and your partner begin trying to get pregnant.

If you have any of these medical conditions, it may be wise for you to consult with a fertility expert before you and your partner try to conceive:

• Hypertension
• Heart Disease
• Diabetes
• Kidney Disease
• Thyroid Condition

Additionally, if you have undergone chemotherapy, a fertility specialist will be able to advise you accordingly.

If you are thinking of getting pregnant and would like to increase your chances of conceiving, it is highly recommended that you speak with your doctor and ask to do a pre-pregnancy check-up. During this check-up, doctors will look into any health conditions that might be affecting your chances of conceiving and determine the areas that should be worked on.