This is one of the most common questions that you might have when you decide to seek infertility treatments. Since you were young, you might have visited your gynecologist for any concerns related to your reproductive system.
And now, when you have infertility issues, you might be recommended to visit an infertility specialist. This might make you wonder, “Can’t a gynecologist treat infertility issues?”
Well, gynecologists do play a part in your infertility treatments. We will discuss their role and the difference between a gynecologist and an infertility specialist in this article.
Will A Gynaecologist Treat Infertility?
If you ask about infertility treatment, no, a gynecologist does not treat infertility. A gynecologist is an expert in the female reproductive system. They help you assess your reproductive system and diagnose test if you have any issues with your fertility.
They can assist and guide you through your infertility treatment. However, the treatment can only be performed by an infertility specialist.
What Is The Difference Between A Fertility Doctor And A Gynaecologist?
Here is a clear distinction between the roles of a gynecologist and a fertility doctor in your reproductive health. You can use this to understand the difference between them.
Gynecologists
As discussed above, gynecologists conduct various tests to assess your condition and check if you are healthy. These tests include:
- Preliminary fertility evaluation (blood tests and pelvic exams)
- Prescribe medications in cases of ovulatory disorders or hormonal imbalances
- Diagnose and treat conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, etc.
- Monitor ovulation cycles and suggest the right time to try to conceive
- Evaluate your fertility condition and determine whether fertility treatments are necessary.
Fertility doctor
After a gynecologist has assessed your condition, you will be asked to consult a fertility doctor if they find that you have infertility issues. A fertility doctor will go through your medical records, assess your condition, and determine the right fertility treatment option for you.
Some fertility treatment options include,
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination),
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization),
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection),
- IMSI (Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection),
- Donor eggs, sperm, or embryos, and
- Surrogacy.
When Should I Consult A Gynecologist?
A gynecologist is a part of the routine you should undergo to maintain a healthy reproductive system. From puberty to menopause, a gynecologist can help you diagnose and treat issues that can affect your fertility and chances of having a baby.
You can consult a gynecologist in cases of issues like
- Irregular, heavy, or no periods,
- Pelvic pain,
- Pain during sexual intercourse,
- Vaginal itching or burning,
- Unusual vaginal discharge, menopause guidance, etc.
When Should I Consult A Fertility Doctor?
A fertility doctor is usually consulted when you have trouble achieving pregnancy. Here are some cases where consulting a fertility doctor can help you get pregnant.
- If you are above 35 years old and have been unable to get pregnant after six months of trying.
- If you are under 35 years old and have been unable to get pregnant after one year of trying.
- If you have any underlying health conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes, etc.
- If your partner has infertility issues like low sperm count, motility, or morphology.
Tips To Choose Fertility Doctor
With the increasing number of fertility doctors and fertility hospitals, it is important for you to choose the best fertility hospital and doctor for your infertility treatments. Here are some tips to choose the best fertility doctor for your fertility treatments.
- Check the doctor’s education qualifications.
- Check their experience and expertise in treating infertility.
- Check their success rate for each treatment.
- Check if the doctor has successfully treated cases similar to yours.
- Check if the doctor’s hospital uses hi-tech equipment for fertility treatments.
- Check the location (accessibility) and cost (affordability) of the treatment.
Conclusion
A gynecologist and fertility doctor and two different professionals working towards one goal (ensuring your reproductive health and fertility). If you have any issues with your fertility, you can visit an expert gynecologist and get their analysis first.
They will assess you and determine whether it will be helpful for you to visit a fertility doctor for further treatments.
FAQs
Yes, a gynecologist can detect fertility. A gynecologist will conduct several tests on you to check your reproductive health. These tests can identify if you have any infertility issues.
Miscarriages are common and not a big issue today. However, if you have recurrent miscarriages or if your miscarriage is due to an infertility issue, it is best to consult a fertility specialist and get yourself treated.
Yes, fertility doctors can detect fertility issues in your body. They will conduct the necessary tests and provide the necessary treatments if they diagnose infertility issues.
