How common is infertility?

Infertility affects about 1 in 8 couples. Both male and female factors contribute equally, and many cases are treatable with medical interventions.

Does age affect fertility?

Yes, age is the single most important factor for female fertility. Egg quality declines significantly after 35, and more sharply after 40. Male fertility also declines but more gradually.

What is the success rate of IVF?

For women under 35, the live birth rate per cycle is approximately 40–50%. Success rates decrease with age, dropping to about 10–15% for women over 40.

ReproductiveICD-10: N97Affects approximately 1 in 8 couples in the United States

Infertility

Also known as: Subfertility, Inability to Conceive

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse (6 months if over 35). It affects both men and women equally. Advances in assisted reproductive technologies have made parenthood possible for many couples previously unable to conceive.

Symptoms

Inability to become pregnant after regular unprotected intercourse

Irregular or absent menstrual periods (female)

Signs of hormonal imbalance (acne, excessive hair growth, hair loss)

Pain during intercourse

Reduced sexual desire or erectile dysfunction (male)

Testicular pain, swelling, or lumps (male)

Causes

Ovulation disorders (PCOS, hypothalamic dysfunction, premature ovarian insufficiency)
Fallopian tube damage or blockage
Male factor: low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology
Uterine abnormalities (fibroids, polyps)
Age-related decline in egg quality and quantity
Unexplained infertility

Risk Factors

Female age over 35
Male age over 40
Smoking and excessive alcohol use
Obesity or being significantly underweight
History of STIs
Endometriosis or PCOS

Diagnosis

Semen analysis for male partner
Blood tests for female hormones (FSH, LH, AMH, estradiol, TSH, prolactin)
Hysterosalpingography to evaluate fallopian tubes
Transvaginal ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve and uterine anatomy
Ovulation tracking

Treatment

Ovulation induction with clomiphene citrate or letrozole
Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
In vitro fertilization (IVF) with or without ICSI
Surgical correction of structural issues
Donor eggs, sperm, or gestational surrogacy
Lifestyle modifications: weight management, smoking cessation

Prevention

Maintain a healthy weight and balanced diet
Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs
Practice safe sex to prevent STIs
Consider fertility preservation if delaying parenthood

When to See a Doctor

Trying to conceive for 12 months without success (6 months if over 35)
Known risk factors such as endometriosis or PCOS
Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Male partner has testicular problems or previous cancer treatment

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Endometriosis

Reproductive

Erectile Dysfunction

Reproductive

Hypothyroidism

Endocrine

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