You are technically classed as "infertile" if you cannot have children without assistance.
80% to 90% of couples who regularly try should conceive within the first year; each menstrual cycle brings a 10%-15% chance of conception. If it takes longer than this one year period, there may be reduced fertility.
The cause does not always lie with the woman alone; sometimes it may be with the man, or with both man and woman. In 10% of cases there may be an unexplained infertility issue. Preferably a couple is pregnant after a few months, but there is no real reason to worry if you are not pregnant after one year.
In some cases it is advisable to seek help earlier.
If you are 35 years old and not pregnant after 6 months it is advisable to seek advice quickly, as there may be less time for fertility treatments. If the man already knows that his sperm is poor quality or of low count, you should again seek help earlier. First seek your GP, who may refer you to a specialist.
The doctor may ask questions about:
Mogelijke oorzaken van onvruchtbaarheid
Mogelijke behandelingen van onvruchtbaarheid
Also see these information articles: · Fertility treatments · Male fertility problems · Medication
Related topics