When should you consult a doctor?
If the desired pregnancy does not occur after one year of regular, unprotected sex, we speak of infertility. Over the age of 35, it is worth consulting a specialist after just six months of unsuccessful attempts – and over 40, starting an investigation and treatment may be necessary almost immediately.
Choosing the right place is crucial: fertility centers offer complex examinations and personalized treatment. Unfortunately, nowadays many prefer to turn to naturopaths or alternative directions, which, while useful as a supplement, cannot replace specialized medical help – especially when time is of the essence.
The role of lifestyle
Lifestyle is not a miracle cure, but it can play a key role in making treatments more successful – in fact, it may even happen that pregnancy occurs naturally. What is certain: it is worth quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake has a beneficial effect not only on general health but also on fertility.
In addition to a balanced diet and regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight is also particularly important. Both overweight and low body weight can negatively affect the hormonal system, ovulation, and cycle regularity. For women planning to have children, a daily intake of 400 micrograms of folic acid and vitamin D supplementation is recommended, which, beyond supporting fertility, is essential for the fetus's development.
However, it is important to understand: a healthy lifestyle cannot turn back time. The aging of the ovaries is a natural process that cannot be stopped, regardless of the best intentions and awareness. But what we can influence – is worth changing.
If it doesn't happen naturally
It is important to know that IVF and other assisted reproductive procedures offer a real chance for parenthood to many couples, but they are not an automatic solution. The success rate depends on many factors – such as age, health status, and the chosen institution.
On average, the success rate for an individual IVF cycle ranges between 20 and 40 percent, and typically multiple attempts are needed before results are achieved. Treatments can be emotionally and physically demanding, but statistics show that the chances of a baby arriving do increase after multiple transfers – especially at a younger age.
What few people talk about / Still a taboo
Fertility issues are extremely taxing not only physically but also mentally. The waves of failed attempts, hormone treatments, waiting, hope, and disappointment represent emotional challenges that many couples face alone. While it is natural to share the arrival of a baby with joy and pride, the road leading there often remains hidden – even from closest friends and family members.
Advice such as "don't stress about it, and it will happen" – although well-intentioned – often creates guilt and does not offer real help.
That is why involving a professional – such as a psychologist, fertility counselor, or mental health specialist – who can help process the events in a safe space can be of immense help.
It is important to know that a successful IVF treatment often requires multiple cycles – in many cases, the long-awaited result comes after three or four attempts. Unfortunately, according to statistics, nearly half of patients give up treatment after two failed attempts, and one-third quit after just the first one.
In such cases, the attending physician's task is not only to medically rethink the next step but also to be present as a human being – and to support the couple on a journey that often requires the greatest patience, perseverance, and empathy.
