Infertility: definition and meaning
Infertility is not getting pregnant after 12 months of regular sex without contraception, or after 6 months if you are 35 or older. It is common, affecting roughly 1 in 7 couples, and it has many causes in both partners. Many people with infertility do go on to conceive, some with treatment and some without.
Common causes
About a third of cases involve the female partner, a third the male partner, and the rest both or no clear cause ("unexplained infertility"). The most frequent causes include:
- Ovulation problems, such as PCOS, thyroid problems or premature ovarian insufficiency
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, for example after pelvic inflammatory disease
- Endometriosis or fibroids
- Sperm problems, such as low count or poor movement
- Age, because egg number and quality decline, especially after 35
Tests and treatment
A doctor usually starts with a history, blood tests for hormones (including progesterone to confirm ovulation), an ultrasound, a test of the tubes and a semen analysis. Treatment depends on the cause: medicines that trigger ovulation, surgery, intrauterine insemination, or IVF.
The emotional side
Trying for a long time can be exhausting. Many people describe a cycle of hope in the two-week wait and grief when a period arrives. That is a real emotional load, and support from a counselor or a fertility support group can help as much as the medical side.
Bring a few months of cycle dates, period length and any spotting to your first appointment. It makes the conversation faster and more useful.
Frequently asked questions
Is infertility the same as sterility?
No. Infertility means it is harder or slower to conceive. Many people with infertility still get pregnant, with or without treatment.
When should I see a doctor?
After 12 months of trying, or 6 months if you're 35 or older. Go sooner if your periods are very irregular or absent, or you know of a condition like endometriosis.
Sources
This page is for information only and isn鈥檛 medical advice. If something worries you, please talk to a doctor.
Keep reading
What is IVF (in vitro fertilization)?IVF (in vitro fertilization) joins eggs and sperm in a lab, then places an embryo in the uterus. The steps, who it helps, and how due dates work.
What is PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome)?PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is a common hormone condition causing irregular periods, high androgens and ovulation problems. Signs, diagnosis and care.
Ovulation: definition and meaningOvulation is when an ovary releases an egg, usually 12 to 14 days before your next period. Signs, timing, the fertile window, and how it affects mood.
PCOS (now also called PMOS) and your cyclePCOS, now also called PMOS, explained: the common signs, how doctors diagnose it, what it does to your cycle and mood, and what helps day to day.Ovulation calculator: when do I ovulate?Free ovulation calculator: enter your last period and cycle length to see your likely ovulation day for the next 4 cycles. Private, instant, estimates only.