What is Infertility?
Understanding infertility is the first step toward a successful pregnancy
Definition of Infertility
Medically, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after:
- •12 months of unprotected regular intercourse (women under 35)
- •6 months (women 35 and older)
- •Immediately if known fertility issues exist (e.g., tubal blockage, severe male infertility)
Infertility affects approximately 10-15% of couples of reproductive age. Importantly, most cases of infertility can be successfully treated.
When Should You See a Specialist?
Women Under 35
After 12 months of trying without success
Women 35–40
After 6 months of trying without success
Women Over 40
Seek care immediately without waiting
Known Medical History
Endometriosis, PCOS, prior tubal surgery, abnormal semen analysis — see a specialist right away
Common Causes of Infertility
Infertility can stem from female, male, or combined factors. Common causes include:
Ovulation Disorders
PCOS, diminished ovarian reserve, hyperprolactinemia — causing irregular or absent ovulation
Tubal Factors
Pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, or surgery causing tubal blockage or adhesions
Male Factor
Low sperm count, poor motility, or abnormal morphology — accounts for about one-third of all infertility cases
Uterine & Other Factors
Fibroids, uterine septum, intrauterine adhesions, and unexplained infertility (~15–20% of cases)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to do IVF for infertility?
Not necessarily. Many infertility patients can conceive through simpler treatments, such as ovulation induction with IUI. IVF is typically recommended for tubal blockage, severe male infertility, repeated IUI failures, or when genetic embryo testing is needed. Your physician will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your specific diagnosis.
Can men be infertile too?
Yes. Male factor infertility accounts for about one-third of all infertility cases. Male infertility typically manifests as abnormal sperm count, motility, or morphology, diagnosed via semen analysis. Causes include varicocele, infection history, hormonal issues, and genetic factors.
How long should I try before seeing a specialist?
Women under 35 should seek evaluation after 12 months of trying without success; women over 35 should come in after 6 months. If you have a known history of endometriosis, PCOS, tubal issues, or abnormal semen analysis, see a specialist right away at any age. Early evaluation saves time and avoids missing the optimal treatment window.
Can infertility be prevented?
Some infertility risk factors can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices — maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excess alcohol, regular STI screening, and not delaying childbearing unnecessarily. However, genetic factors and conditions like endometriosis are difficult to prevent. Early evaluation is the most effective way to protect your fertility.
What tests are done at the first infertility evaluation?
Women typically have: blood tests (AMH, FSH, LH, estradiol, thyroid function), ultrasound (uterus, ovaries, antral follicle count), and assessment of uterine cavity and tubal patency (HSG or hysteroscopy). Men have a semen analysis. Further genetic or immunological tests may be ordered based on initial results.
Learn More
Not sure if you should see a specialist? Ask us.
Our international patient consultants are ready to provide personalized guidance across time zones