Overview
Infertility is a reproductive health condition in which pregnancy does not happen after a period of trying, or a person cannot carry a pregnancy to birth. It is common worldwide and can affect individuals and couples in different ways. Infertility is not only a women’s issue; male factors, female factors, both, or unexplained factors may be involved.
Key Symptoms
The main sign is difficulty becoming pregnant after regular unprotected sex over time. Some people also notice irregular or absent menstrual periods, very painful periods, pelvic pain, sexual difficulties, ejaculation problems, or changes in body hair or breast discharge that may point to hormone problems. In many people, there may be no obvious symptoms until they try to conceive.
Causes and Risk Factors
Infertility can be linked to problems with ovulation, fallopian tubes, the uterus, endometriosis, sperm production or movement, hormone conditions, infections, prior surgery, or genetic factors. Age is an important factor because fertility usually declines over time, especially for women. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, certain drugs, some sexually transmitted infections, exposure to toxins, and very low or very high body weight can also affect fertility.
Who Is Affected
Infertility can affect people of reproductive age anywhere in the world. It may affect people trying to have a first child or those who have been pregnant before. Men and women can both have contributing factors, so evaluation of both partners is often important when relevant.
Prevention
Not all infertility can be prevented, but some steps may lower risk. These include preventing sexually transmitted infections, avoiding smoking and drug use, limiting alcohol, managing chronic health conditions, and getting timely care for pelvic infections or reproductive health problems. Trying to conceive earlier in the reproductive years may also matter for some people.
Diagnosis and Tests
A healthcare professional may ask about menstrual cycles, pregnancies, medical history, medicines, sexual history, and lifestyle factors. Testing may include ovulation assessment, hormone blood tests, semen analysis, imaging of the uterus or fallopian tubes, and other exams based on the person’s situation. The goal is to look for treatable causes in one or both partners.
Treatment Categories
Treatment depends on the cause, age, how long infertility has lasted, and personal preferences. Options may include treating hormone problems, surgery for certain physical conditions, treatment for infections, medicines to support ovulation, and assisted reproductive technologies such as insemination or in vitro fertilization. Counseling or mental health support may also help because infertility can be emotionally stressful.
Living With It
Infertility can affect emotional health, relationships, finances, and daily life. Feelings such as grief, anger, shame, or isolation are common and deserve support. Some people find it helpful to talk with a counselor, join a support group, or discuss options and goals openly with their partner and care team.
Diet and Lifestyle
Healthy daily habits support overall reproductive health, even though they may not solve every cause of infertility. This can include regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, enough sleep, stress management, and avoiding tobacco, recreational drugs, and excessive alcohol. Before taking supplements or alternative treatments, ask a healthcare professional because some products can interfere with fertility or medical care.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical care if pregnancy has not happened after 12 months of regular unprotected sex, or after 6 months if the woman is age 35 or older. Get care sooner if there are irregular periods, absent periods, severe pelvic pain, known endometriosis, prior pelvic infection, repeated pregnancy loss, sexual dysfunction, a history of cancer treatment, or concern about sperm health. Early evaluation can help identify possible causes and discuss options.