When to see the GP for fertility concerns

Trying to conceive can be one of the most exciting - and sometimes most frustrating - chapters in life. ****If you’ve been trying for a while and nothing seems to be happening, it’s natural to wonder: is this normal, or should I get checked out? Fertility issues are more common than you might think - about one in six couples experience difficulties conceiving. While doctors often suggest trying for a year before seeking help, there are times when it makes sense to visit your GP sooner.

Table of contents

1. When it might be time to see your GP

2. Age and fertility: why timing matters

3. Recurrent miscarriages

4. Irregular or absent periods

5. Known medical or gynaecological conditions

6. STIs and fertility

7. When should your male partner see a doctor?

8. What to expect at your GP visit

9. Key takeaways

When it might be time to see your GP

If you and your partner have been having regular, unprotected sex for over 12 months without success, it’s time to make an appointment. For couples under 35, it can take up to a year to conceive, but waiting longer could indicate that further investigation is needed. That year can feel endless when you’re trying for a baby, so emotional support during this time really matters. Whether through a trusted friend, a counsellor, or a supportive community, don’t underestimate the value of being heard.

Age and fertility: why timing matters

If you’re over 35, it’s best to check in with your GP after six months of trying. Fertility naturally declines with age as oestrogen levels drop and egg quality and quantity decrease. There are also increased health risks for both parent and baby as we age, so seeking advice early can help you plan with clarity and confidence.

Did you know? Women are born with all the eggs they’ll ever have - around one to two million. By puberty, only about 300,000 remain, and just a few hundred will ever mature and be released during ovulation.

Recurrent miscarriages

Experiencing two or more miscarriages in a row is known as recurrent miscarriage. While sometimes it happens by chance, repeated pregnancy loss can also be a sign of an underlying issue that deserves attention. Visiting your GP can help identify possible causes and ensure you get proper monitoring and support during future pregnancies.

Irregular, abnormal or absent periods

A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 and 38 days. If your cycle falls outside this range, is very heavy, very light, or accompanied by significant pain, it’s worth getting checked. These symptoms might indicate irregular ovulation - which can make conception more challenging - or point to a hormonal or structural issue that needs care.

Known medical or gynaecological conditions

Certain health conditions can influence fertility. These include thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, obesity, heart or kidney disease, epilepsy, or a history of cancer or abdominal surgery. It’s also important to discuss gynaecological conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. These can interfere with ovulation or cause scarring or blockages in the reproductive system. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your chances of conception.

STIs and fertility

Past sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, can sometimes cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which may damage the fallopian tubes or cause scarring. If you’ve had an STI - especially one that went untreated - it’s wise to mention it to your GP so they can assess if further testing is needed.

When should your male partner see a doctor?

It takes two to make a baby. Male fertility factors account for roughly 40–50% of fertility issues, so it’s equally important for your partner to get checked if conception hasn’t happened after several months of trying. We’ve created a separate article on male fertility - you’ll find it here!

What to expect at your GP visit

When visiting your GP (especially in the Netherlands), remember that you are your own best advocate. Many GPs are supportive, but not all may recognise the urgency of fertility concerns right away. Be clear about your situation, mention how long you’ve been trying, and ask about referral options or initial testing. If the process feels overwhelming, you can always reach out to us via the Flouria chat. Our experts can help you prepare for your appointment and discuss what questions to ask your GP.

Remember

Seeking help doesn’t mean something is “wrong” - it means you’re taking proactive steps for your reproductive health. Whether you need reassurance, answers, or a clear next step, support is out there - and you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Key takeaways

• About one in six couples face fertility challenges - you’re not alone.

• See your GP after 12 months of trying (or 6 months if you’re over 35).

• Recurrent miscarriages, irregular cycles, or known medical conditions are all reasons to seek help earlier.

• Male fertility matters too - your partner should also get checked.

• Advocate for yourself during GP visits and ask for referrals if needed.

References:

Ivkosic, I. E., Mesic, J., Fures, R., Hrgovic, Z., Bulic, L., Brenner, E., Cosic, V., Miskic, B., & Kolaric, D. (2025). Infertility - a Great Challenge of the Past, Present, and Future. Materia socio-medica, 37(1), 74–79. https://doi.org/10.5455/msm.2025.37.74-79

Dhalwani, N. N., Fiaschi, L., West, J., & Tata, L. J. (2013). Occurrence of fertility problems presenting to primary care: population-level estimates of clinical burden and socioeconomic inequalities across the UK. Human reproduction (Oxford, England), 28(4), 960–968. https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/des451

Rozen, G., & Stern, K. (2023). An update on fertility assistance and assisted reproductive technologies. Australian journal of general practice, 52(1-2), 11–17. https://doi.org/10.31128/AJGP-08-22-6512

Chambers, G. M., Harrison, C., Raymer, J., Petersen Raymer, A. K., Britt, H., Chapman, M., Ledger, W., & Norman, R. J. (2019). Infertility management in women and men attending primary care-patient characteristics, management actions and referrals. Human reproduction (Oxford, England), 34(11), 2173–2183. https://doi.org/10.1093/humrep/dez172