Infertility overview

Infertility overview

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive despite having frequent intercourse for at least 1 year. An estimated 10 to 15% of couples in the United States are infertile.

Most couples are able to naturally conceive within 6 months to one year. The rate of natural conception in couples who have regular sex is:

20% within 1 month
70% within 6 months
85% within 1 year
95% within 2 years

When to see a doctor

Couples who have difficulty conceiving after 1 year should visit a health professional. Women over 35 or women who have been diagnosed with reproductive problems should visit a health professional sooner.

Women over age 35
Women with abnormal or painful menstrual cycles
History of pelvic inflammatory disease or endometriosis
History of miscarriages
Men with low sperm counts