Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffMost couples achieve pregnancy within the first six months of trying. Overall, after 12 months of unprotected intercourse, approximately 90 percent of couples will become pregnant. The majority of the remaining couples will eventually conceive, with or without treatment.
The main sign of infertility is the inability for a couple to get pregnant. There may be no other obvious symptoms.
In some cases, an infertile woman may have abnormal menstrual periods. An infertile man may have some signs of hormonal problems, such as changes in hair growth or sexual function.
When to see a doctor
In general, don't be too concerned about infertility unless you and your partner have been trying regularly to conceive for at least one year. Talk with your doctor earlier, however, if you're a woman and:
- You're age 34 or older and have been trying to conceive for six months or longer
- You menstruate irregularly or not at all
- Your periods are very painful
- You have been diagnosed with endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- You've had more than one miscarriage
If you're a man, talk with your doctor if you have:
- Low sperm count
- A history of testicular, prostate or sexual problems
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