Infertility

Not being able to get pregnant after a year of regular unprotected sex. It affects both women and men.

FertilityLast updated: 21 October 2026

Quick Summary

Primary Symptoms

Not getting pregnant; sometimes irregular periods, pelvic pain, or in men, problems with erection or ejaculation.

Common Treatments

Treating the cause, medicines to help ovulation, IUI, IVF and lifestyle changes.

Risk Factors

Age, PCOS, endometriosis, blocked tubes, low sperm count, smoking, alcohol, obesity and some infections.

OverviewSymptomsCausesTreatmentFAQ

Overview

About a third of infertility is due to female factors, a third to male factors, and the rest to both or unexplained causes.

Both partners should be tested. Women over 35 should seek advice after six months of trying.

Symptoms

Not conceiving

After 12 months of trying.

Irregular periods

May mean ovulation problems.

Pelvic pain

With endometriosis.

Male symptoms

Erection or ejaculation problems.

Causes & Risk Factors

Biological Causes

Problems with ovulation, tubes, womb, sperm or a combination.

Key Risk Factors

  • Age Female fertility falls after mid-30s.
  • Medical conditions PCOS, endometriosis, infections.
  • Lifestyle Smoking, alcohol and weight.

Management & Treatment

01. Tests

Hormone tests, ultrasound, tube tests and semen analysis.

02. Medicines

Letrozole or clomifene to help ovulation.

03. Assisted reproduction

IUI or IVF.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is infertility always the woman's issue?
No, male factors are just as common.
Does stress cause infertility?
Stress affects wellbeing, but rarely is the main cause.

Sources and further reading

Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.