Fertility
Understanding Infertility
Infertility is usually defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sex (or after 6 months if the woman is over 35). It’s a common issue, affecting around 1 in 7 couples in the UK. While it can be emotionally challenging, many people go on to conceive naturally or with medical support.
Causes of Infertility
Roughly one-third of infertility cases are due to female factors, including problems with ovulation (such as polycystic ovary syndrome), blocked fallopian tubes (often from conditions like endometriosis), or issues with the womb. Another third are due to male factors, such as low sperm count, poor motility, or structural blockages. The remaining cases may be a combination of both partners or classed as ‘unexplained’ after tests show no clear cause.
When to Seek Support
If pregnancy isn’t happening, it’s important to seek medical advice. A fertility assessment may include blood tests to check hormone levels, ultrasound scans, and semen analysis. Based on results, doctors may suggest treatments like ovulation-inducing medication, minor surgery, or assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF or IUI. Lifestyle changes – including maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and reducing stress – can also support fertility.
Looking Ahead
Infertility affects many, but support is available. With medical advances and a range of treatment options, many couples do go on to conceive. Early support, open conversations, and access to fertility services can make the journey less overwhelming and more hopeful.
Quick Facts, Big Impact
Prevalence in the UK
Infertility is relatively common, affecting roughly 10–15% of couples of childbearing age. In about 15% of infertile couples, doctors cannot find any specific cause – this is known as “unexplained” infertility
Common Causes
In women, infertility is often caused by ovulation problems (such as PCOS), blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, or age-related decline in egg quality. Male factors include low sperm count or motility. In around a third of cases, both partners contribute. Sometimes, no clear cause is found—this is known as unexplained infertility.
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Diagnosis Timeline
Doctors typically define infertility as failure to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected sex (for women under 35). For women over age 35, not conceiving after 6 months of trying may indicate a fertility problem and warrants medical evaluation.
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Treatment Options
There are several treatment options for infertility in women. Common approaches include fertility drugs or hormonal therapy to stimulate ovulation, surgical procedures to remove tissue blocking fertility (for example, endometriosis or scar tissue) or to open blocked fallopian tubes , and assisted reproductive technologies such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) . Each treatment’s suitability and success can vary based on the underlying cause and the woman’s age.
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