Short answer
More than 8 in 10 couples where the woman is under 40 conceive within a year of regular unprotected sex. See a fertility specialist if you have not conceived after 12 months of trying, or sooner if the woman is 36 or older, periods are irregular or absent, or either partner has a known problem. Both partners should be tested, because male factors are common.
- Published
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- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
How long is normal?
Infertility is defined as no pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected sex. WHO estimates that about 1 in 6 people experience infertility in their lifetime, so you are not alone. It can be primary (never having conceived) or secondary (difficulty conceiving again after a previous pregnancy).
See a specialist sooner if
- The woman is 36 or older
- Periods are irregular, very infrequent or absent
- There is a history of pelvic infection, ectopic pregnancy, endometriosis or pelvic surgery
- Fibroids, PCOS or thyroid problems are known
- The man has had testicular problems, surgery, injury or undescended testicles, or difficulty with erection or ejaculation
- Either partner has had cancer treatment
- You have had repeated miscarriages
Common causes
- The woman not releasing an egg regularly (ovulation problems), for example with PCOS
- Problems with the sperm: low count, poor movement or abnormal shape
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes
- Endometriosis, fibroids or other problems of the womb
In about a quarter of couples no cause is found, which is called unexplained infertility.
The first tests
- For the woman: hormone blood tests, a pelvic ultrasound, a test to check that the tubes are open, and tracking of ovulation
- For the man: a semen analysis, which is simple, quick and painless
Improving your chances meanwhile
- Have sex every 2 to 3 days through the cycle.
- Aim for a healthy weight; being overweight or very underweight affects fertility.
- Stop smoking, including exposure to second-hand smoke, and avoid alcohol.
- The woman should take folic acid while trying to conceive.
- Men who work with pesticides, solvents or metals should use protective equipment.
At Dhruva Hospitals
Fertility consultations are with Dr. S Mounika Reddy. Hormone tests, semen analysis and ovulation scans are done in the hospital, so most first tests need only a few visits. Call +91 99599 59694 or WhatsApp us to book a fertility consultation. OPD hours are 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Common questions
Should my husband be tested too?
Yes. Sperm-related problems are found in around half of couples having difficulty conceiving, and a semen analysis is a simple first test.
We had one child easily. Why can’t we conceive again?
This is called secondary infertility and is common. Age, weight changes, infections, scarring after a caesarean or other surgery, and sperm changes can all play a part. The same tests help find the cause.
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Sources
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.