PREGNANCY
DELAYED
We've been trying for a few years. Who should get tested first?
Both partners should be evaluated together by a fertility specialist. Conception depends on healthy gametes from both the biological father (sperm) and mother (egg), as well as a receptive uterine environment for the embryo to implant and develop.
Because male and female factors contribute equally to fertility challenges, simultaneous testing ensures a complete diagnostic evaluation and helps determine the most effective path forward.
Can delaying pregnancy affect fertility?
Many couples prefer to spend time together after marriage, focus on settling into their careers, travel, or building financial stability before planning for children. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this.
However, what many people do not realize is that while fertility does not have a strict “expiration date,” it does have a declining trend over time. For most women, fertility peaks in their 20s. It begins a gradual decline after age 30, and this decline becomes significantly more pronounced after age 35.
This does not mean getting pregnant after 35 is impossible. However, it may take longer to conceive, the likelihood of needing fertility treatment increases, and the risk of pregnancy complications is higher.
Therefore, if you plan to delay pregnancy, it should be an informed decision made after consulting a fertility specialist, not a decision based on the misconception that fertility remains unchanged forever.
After a miscarriage, when can we try to conceive again?
Early pregnancy loss is relatively common. In some cases, a miscarriage may occur even before a woman realizes she is pregnant. Even after a positive pregnancy test, approximately one in five pregnancies ends in miscarriage within the first 12 weeks. In many instances, there is no clearly identifiable cause.
For most women, a miscarriage is a single, isolated event. Experiencing one miscarriage does not mean a healthy future pregnancy is impossible—in fact, the majority of women go on to have successful pregnancies and deliver healthy babies.
You can begin trying to conceive again as soon as you and your partner feel both physically and emotionally ready. Many women can safely attempt conception after having one normal menstrual cycle following a miscarriage.
During this time, it is vital to share your feelings with your partner, family, or friends. Seeking support from a professional counselor can also be immensely helpful.
Factors That May Increase the Risk of Miscarriage:
- Advanced maternal age
- Uncontrolled underlying medical conditions
- Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
- Excess body weight or obesity
However, in most cases, a miscarriage is not caused by anything you did or failed to do, so it is essential not to blame yourself. Many people worry that daily emotional stress or sexual intercourse caused the loss. Standard daily stress does not cause a miscarriage, nor does sex during an uncomplicated pregnancy—unless specifically advised against by your doctor. Once you decide to try again, it is recommended to take 400 micrograms of folic acid daily.
Can a Future Miscarriage Be Entirely Prevented? While it is not always possible to completely prevent a miscarriage, adopting a
healthy lifestyle can optimize your chances for a successful pregnancy:
- Attend all scheduled prenatal check-ups regularly.
- Maintain a healthy body weight.
- Completely avoid smoking and alcohol.
- Take prenatal vitamins as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Eat a balanced diet and engage in regular, safe exercise.
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