Consulting a fertility specialist is a crucial step for individuals or couples who are experiencing difficulty conceiving. It's important to seek professional help when:

1. Age-related concerns: Women over the age of 35 and men over the age of 40 may experience reduced fertility, making it advisable to consult a fertility specialist if pregnancy has not been achieved after six months of trying.
2. Irregular menstrual cycles: Women with irregular periods or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) should consider seeing a fertility specialist to evaluate potential fertility issues.
3. Previous reproductive health issues: Individuals with a history of reproductive health issues, such as endometriosis, previous miscarriages, or sexually transmitted infections, should seek the expertise of a fertility specialist.
4. Unsuccessful attempts at conception: Couples who have been trying to conceive for over a year without success, or for six months if the woman is over 35, should seek the guidance of a fertility specialist to assess potential underlying causes.

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual circumstances may vary. Consulting a fertility specialist can provide personalized insights and recommendations for addressing specific fertility challenges.