Infertility: Symptoms

Most couples achieve pregnancy within the first six months of trying. Overall, after 12 months of frequent unprotected intercourse, about 90 percent of couples will become pregnant. The majority of 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 irregular or absent menstrual periods. An infertile man may have signs of hormonal problems, such as changes in hair growth, sexual function, reduced sexual desire, or problems with ejaculation. He may also have small testicles or a swelling in the scrotum.

When to see a doctor

In general, you may consider seeing a doctor about infertility if you and your partner have been trying regularly to conceive for at least one year. You may consider being seen earlier if you're a woman and:

You're age 35 to 40 and have been trying to conceive for six months or longer

You're over age 40

You menstruate irregularly or not at all

You have known fertility problems

You've been diagnosed with endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease

You've had more than one miscarriage

You've had prior cancer treatment

If you're a man, you may wish to be evaluated sooner if you have:

A low sperm count or other problems with sperm

Swelling in the scrotum (see 'varicocele' below)

You have had a previous vasectomy

Undergone prior scrotal or inguinal surgery

Small testicles or problems with sexual function or desire

Had prior cancer cancer treatment

Desire to know your fertility status