If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, then a visit to an Obgyn is generally the first step in your fertility health journey. Dr Masina can conduct tests and provide advice on increasing your chances of falling pregnant.

She may perform a preliminary fertility evaluation- an over-the-counter urine test known as an ovulation predictor test. This test helps her to see if certain factors are affecting your ability to conceive.

For women, most cases of infertility are caused by ovulation problems. If a woman doesn't ovulate, there will be no eggs to get fertilized. Signs that a woman isn't ovulating include absent or irregular menstrual periods. In men, abnormal sperm function or production are some of the leading causes of infertility. In other cases, couples simply struggle with how to time intercourse when the woman is ovulating.

You and your partner should consider having a fertility evaluation if one or both of you are:

• Older than 35 years and have been trying to conceive for six months or more
• Younger than 35 years old and have been trying to conceive for one year or more.

Fertility specialist

In cases where you require advanced infertility treatment, you will be referred to an infertility specialist.

Possible treatment options for infertility include:

• In-vitro fertilization
• Infertility pills or medication
• Surgery to repair ducts or tubes
• Artificial insemination
• Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, eating healthier and eliminating unhealthy habits such as smoking.