CHARLOTTE, N.C., April 27, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Reproductive Endocrinology Associates of Charlotte (REACH), is proud to participate in National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW), which runs from April 22nd - April 28th.  The week was established by RESOLVE, The National Infertility Association, in 1989 to encourage the public to understand reproductive health.

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Nancy L. Teaff, MD, a Reproductive Endocrinologist at REACH, states "people are often surprised at the amount of time it can take to get pregnant once the decision to start a family has been made. For normal healthy couples, it is not uncommon for several months to go by before pregnancy is achieved.  However about seven million women aged 15 to 44 will need help conceiving, according to the Centers for Disease Control.  Further complicating the issue is the lack of understanding of when to seek fertility care - many women do not realize that their fertility dramatically declines after the age of 35."

Those struggling with infertility are definitely not alone.  But, for those who have not been diagnosed or who have been trying without success - the toughest question is - when to seek fertility care and what specialist should they see?

"Most reproductive endocrinologists suggest women under 35 seek out a specialist after one year of trying without success.   Women over 35 have less time to spare since there is a dramatic decline in egg quality and quantity, and should seek the assistance of a reproductive endocrinologist after 6 months of trying without success," adds Dr. Teaff.   

If there are factors such as the lack of ovulation, no sperm or blocked tubes, it would be best to see a reproductive endocrinologist as soon as possible, regardless of age.

REACH is the leader in providing fertility services in North Carolina and has been providing individualized compassionate fertility care for over 24 years. REACH's physicians, are widely respected for their superior pregnancy success rates - among the highest in the region - and for the finest patient care. The superior skill and combined experience make REACH the premier source for fertility treatment in the region. For additional information, visit www.NorthCarolinaFertility.com or search for "REACH" on Facebook. 

SOURCE Reproductive Endocrinology Associates of Charlotte (REACH)