Talking about fertility care: Q&A with Dr. Kimberly Liu
Fertility is something many people think about, but do not always talk about openly. If you are trying to conceive, planning for the future, or wondering what is normal, you may have questions. You are not alone.
At Mount Sinai Fertility, we believe that clear, honest information can help people feel more confident about their next steps. We spoke with Dr. Kimberly Liu about when to seek fertility care, what often surprises patients, and how to support reproductive health.
Whether you are just starting to think about growing your family or have been trying for some time, understanding your options can make a meaningful difference.
Q&A with Dr. Kimberly Liu
When should someone see a fertility specialist?
Dr. Liu: “Anyone who has been trying to conceive for more than one year should see a fertility specialist. In some cases, we recommend a referral even after six months, especially if someone is over 35 or has medical issues that may have affected fertility, such as chemotherapy, radiation, or pelvic surgery.”
She also notes that fertility care can be helpful in other situations.
Dr. Liu: “Someone in their early to mid-30s who is not planning to conceive in the next few years may want to consider fertility preservation. Fertility support is also important for anyone who wants to conceive and needs assistance, such as a single person or someone in a same-sex relationship. We also recommend assessment for someone who has experienced multiple early pregnancy losses.”
Fertility care is not only for when something feels wrong. It can also help people better understand their reproductive health, plan ahead, and learn about the options available to them.
What surprises people most about fertility?
Dr. Liu: “One of the biggest surprises is that even without fertility issues, the chance of spontaneous pregnancy each month is only about 20 to 30 percent for young couples, and about 5 to 10 percent for couples over 40.”
She says many people are also surprised by how common unexplained infertility can be.
Dr. Liu: “Unexplained infertility, which is where a clear cause for infertility isn’t found, is actually common and affects about 15 to 30 percent of couples who have infertility.”
Another common misunderstanding is around timing.
Dr. Liu: “Sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. That means there is not just one optimal day for intercourse, but a fertile window.”
Dr. Liu also highlights two other important points that are often overlooked.
Dr. Liu: “Secondary infertility is common. Having conceived easily before does not always guarantee it will happen again as easily or as quickly. People also often overlook the role of sperm. Abnormalities with sperm or male factors contribute to infertility almost as much as egg or female factors.”
These are important reminders that fertility is complex, and that challenges are common and often shared.
How can someone support their natural fertility?
Dr. Liu: “Timing is essential. Couple should try to time intercourse every one to two days during the fertile window, starting before ovulation.”
She says there are also everyday health steps that can help support fertility.
Dr. Liu: “Optimize weight and aim for a healthy diet. Reduce toxins and exposures such as smoking and excessive alcohol use. Avoid lubricants that may impair sperm motility, and make sure to take folic acid before pregnancy.”
These steps cannot guarantee pregnancy, but they can help support reproductive health and prepare the body for conception.
Fertility can feel complex, but you do not have to navigate it alone. Asking questions, learning your options, and seeking support early can make a real difference.
At Mount Sinai Fertility, care is centred on your goals, your timeline, and your experience. Whether you are exploring fertility preservation, looking for answers after pregnancy loss, or considering treatment options, support is available.
A conversation with a fertility specialist can be a helpful first step toward clarity, reassurance, and a path forward.