If you have been trying to get pregnant for a while and are not achieving the desired results, there are many possible reasons why this could be happening. These reasons may include low sperm count from a partner, ovulation irregularities, structural problems in the reproductive system, or an underlying medical problem. Infertility can have symptoms such as irregular periods or severe menstrual cramps, but most causes of infertility are silent. Here are a few possibilities:
It Hasn’t Been Long Enough
Trying to conceive can feel like a very long, drawn-out process. It might feel like you have been trying forever without results, but knowing that not every couple can conceive right away is important. About 80% of couples conceive after six months of trying, and 90% conceive after 12 months, assuming well-timed intercourse each month. You should see a doctor if you are under 35 and unable to conceive after six months of trying or over 35 and unable to conceive after one year of trying.
Male Infertility
Fertility problems are not always attributed to the woman. About 20-30% of infertile couples discover fertility factors on the man’s side, while another 40% find infertility factors attributed to both the man and the woman. Male infertility rarely has observable symptoms without having a semen analysis, which measures the health of the semen and sperm. Make sure you are both tested if you are experiencing issues with conceiving.
Age
It can take longer to get pregnant for women over 35 and men over 40. Even if a woman is having regular periods at this age, it can not be assumed that her fertility is fine. Age impacts egg quality and quantity. If your partner is five or more years older than you are after age 35, this can increase the risk of fertility problems.
Blocked Fallopian Tubes
The fallopian tubes lead between the ovaries and the uterus; they do not attach directly to the ovaries. Conception occurs inside the fallopian tube, where the sperm meets the egg. If something prevents the fallopian tubes from working correctly or if scarring blocks the sperm or egg from meeting, a woman will not be able to get pregnant.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when the tissue that makes up the uterine lining grows in places outside of the uterus. Up to 50% of women who have endometriosis will have trouble getting pregnant. Not all women will have symptoms, however; some discover that they have endometriosis as part of an infertility work-up.
NCCRM
The North Carolina Center for Reproductive Medicine/Talbert Fertility Institute is here to help you. Our team specializes in fertility testing, diagnosis, and treatment of infertility conditions. We’re experts in IVF, tubal ligation reversal, male infertility, intrauterine insemination (IUI), gestational surrogacy, family balancing, and more. Contact us today.
