Infertility - symptoms and causes (2023)

Request an appointment

Busy

Review

If you and your partner are fighting for a baby, you are not alone. In the United States, 10% to 15% of couples are infertile. For most couples, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive despite frequent unprotected intercourse for at least a year.

Infertility can be the result of problems with you or your partner, or a combination of factors that prevent you from getting pregnant. Fortunately, there are many safe and effective treatments that greatly increase the chances of conception.

Symptoms

The main symptom of infertility is the lack of pregnancy. There may be no other obvious symptoms. Occasionally, women with infertility may have irregular or absent periods. In some cases, men with infertility may have some signs of hormonal problems, such as changes in hair growth or sexual function.

Most couples will eventually become pregnant, with or without treatment.

When to see a doctor

You probably don't need to see a doctor about infertility unless you've been trying to get pregnant regularly for at least a year. However, women should talk to their carer beforehand if:

  • You are at least 35 years old and have been trying to conceive for at least six months
  • He is over 40 years old
  • You have irregular periods or no periods at all
  • Have very painful periods
  • You have experienced fertility problems
  • They were diagnosed with endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
  • You've had a lot of miscarriages
  • They were treated for cancer

Men should talk to their doctor if they have:

  • Low sperm count or other sperm problems
  • History of problems with the testicles, prostate or sexuality
  • Cancer treatment
  • Small testicles or swelling of the scrotum
  • Others in your family have infertility problems

Request an appointment

Grounds

Fertilization and implantation

Infertility - symptoms and causes (1)

Fertilization and implantation

During fertilization, the sperm and egg unite in one of the fallopian tubes to form a zygote. The zygote then travels down the fallopian tube where it becomes a particle. Once in the uterus, the cell becomes a blastocyst. The blastocyst then implants itself in the lining of the uterus - a process called implantation.

The male reproductive system

Infertility - symptoms and causes (2)

The male reproductive system

The male reproductive system creates, stores and transmits sperm. The testicles produce sperm. The fluid from the seminal vesicles and prostate gland combines with sperm to form semen. The penis ejaculates sperm during intercourse.

The female reproductive system

Infertility - symptoms and causes (3)

The female reproductive system

The ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and vagina (vaginal canal) make up the female reproductive system.

All stages of ovulation and fertilization must be performed correctly for conception to occur. Sometimes the problems that cause infertility in couples are present at birth and sometimes develop later in life.

The causes of infertility may affect one or both partners. Sometimes the cause cannot be found.

Causes of male infertility

This may include:

  • Abnormal production or function of spermdue to undescended testicles, birth defects, health problems such as diabetes, or infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, mumps or HIV. Enlarged veins in the testicles (varicose veins) can also affect sperm quality.
  • Sperm supply problemsdue to sexual problems such as premature ejaculation. certain genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis; structural problems such as testicular obstruction. or damage or damage to the reproductive organs.
  • Excessive exposure to certain environmental factors,such as pesticides and other chemicals and radiation. Smoking, alcohol, marijuana, anabolic steroids, and taking medications used to treat bacterial infections, high blood pressure, and depression can also affect fertility. Frequent exposure to heat, such as in a sauna or hot tub, can raise your body temperature and affect sperm production.
  • Cancer and treatment related harmincluding radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Cancer treatment can reduce sperm production, sometimes severely.

Causes of female infertility

Causes of female infertility may include:

  • ovulation disorders,which affect the release of eggs from the ovaries. These include hormonal disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome. Hyperprolactinemia, a condition where you have too much prolactin - the hormone that stimulates breast milk production - can also affect ovulation. Too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism) can affect your menstrual cycle or cause infertility. Other causes may include excessive exercise, eating disorders, or cancers.
  • uterine or cervical abnormalitiesincluding abnormalities of the cervix, uterine polyps, or the shape of the uterus. Noncancerous (benign) tumors in the wall of the uterus (uterine fibroids) can cause infertility by blocking the fallopian tubes or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.
  • fallopian tube damage or obstruction,often caused by inflammation of the fallopian tubes (salpingitis). This may be due to pelvic inflammatory disease, which is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection, endometriosis, or adhesions.
  • endometriosis,which occurs when endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus, can affect the function of the ovaries, uterus and fallopian tubes.
  • Primary ovarian failure (early menopause),when the ovaries stop working and menstruation ends before the age of 40. Although the cause is often unknown, many factors are associated with early menopause, including diseases of the immune system, certain genetic conditions such as Turner syndrome or fragile X carriers, and radiation or chemotherapy.
  • pelvic adhesions,bands of scar tissue that bind organs that may develop after a pelvic infection, appendicitis, endometriosis, or abdominal or pelvic surgery.
  • Cancer and its treatment.Some cancers - especially cancers of the reproductive system - often reduce the fertility of women. Both radiation and chemotherapy can affect fertility.

More information

  • Mayo Clinic Infertility care
  • Secondary infertility
  • Semen Allergy: Cause of Infertility?

Risk factors

Many risk factors for male and female infertility are the same. include:

  • Dob.Female fertility declines gradually with age, especially in the mid-30s, and declines sharply after the age of 37. Infertility in older women is likely due to a lower number and quality of eggs, and may also be due to health issues affecting fertility. Men over 40 may be less fertile than younger men.
  • Tobacco use.Smoking tobacco or marijuana by both partners can reduce the likelihood of pregnancy. Smoking also reduces the potential effectiveness of fertility treatment. Miscarriage is more common in women who smoke. Smoking can increase the risk of erectile dysfunction and low sperm count in men.
  • Using alcohol.There is no safe level of alcohol consumption for women during conception or pregnancy. Alcohol use can contribute to infertility. For men, excessive alcohol consumption can reduce sperm count and motility.
  • Be overweight.Among American women, an inactive lifestyle and being overweight may increase the risk of infertility. Being overweight can also affect sperm count in men.
  • No weight.Women at risk of fertility problems include those with eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, and those on very low-calorie or restrictive diets.
  • Exercise problems.Lack of exercise contributes to obesity, which increases the risk of infertility. Less commonly, ovulation problems may be associated with frequent, vigorous exercise in women who are not overweight.

Prevention

Some types of infertility cannot be prevented. But a few strategies can increase your chances of getting pregnant.

Couples

Have regular intercourse several times during ovulation for the highest pregnancy rate. Intercourse started at least five days before and one day after ovulation increases the chances of getting pregnant. Ovulation usually occurs mid-cycle - midway between periods - for most women with menstrual cycles about 28 days apart.

Men

While most types of male infertility cannot be prevented, these strategies can help:

  • avoid the use of drugs and tobacco as well as excessive alcohol consumption,which can contribute to male infertility.
  • Avoid high temperatures in hot tubs and hot tubs,because they can temporarily affect sperm production and motility.
  • Avoid exposure to industrial or environmental toxins,which can affect sperm production.
  • Limit medications that may affect fertilityprescription drugs and over-the-counter drugs. Talk to your doctor about any regular medications you take, but don't stop taking prescription medications without your doctor's advice.
  • Exercise in moderation.Regular exercise can improve sperm quality and increase your chances of getting pregnant.

women

For women, there are a number of strategies that can increase your chances of getting pregnant:

  • Stop smoking.Tobacco has many negative effects on fertility, not to mention the overall health and health of the fetus. If you smoke and are thinking of getting pregnant, stop now.
  • Avoid alcohol and street drugs.These substances may affect your ability to conceive and have a healthy pregnancy. Don't drink alcohol or use recreational drugs like marijuana if you're trying to get pregnant.
  • Limit caffeine.Women trying to get pregnant may need to limit their caffeine intake. Ask your doctor for instructions on how to use caffeine safely.
  • Exercise in moderation.Regular exercise is important, but exercise so intense that periods are infrequent or absent can affect fertility.
  • Avoid extreme weights.Being overweight or underweight can affect hormone production and cause infertility.

Mayo Clinic personnel

Mayo Clinic Infertility care

Request an appointment

September 1, 2021

Busy

  1. Infertility: An Overview - A Guide for Patients. American Society of Reproductive Medicine. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/infertility-an-overview-booklet/. Accessed April 4, 2019.
  2. Jameson JL et al., eds. Female Infertility: Assessment and Management. In: Endocrinology: Adults and Pediatrics. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed April 27, 2019.
  3. Jameson JL et al., eds. Clinical treatment of male infertility. In: Endocrinology: Adults and Pediatrics. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Saunders Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed March 25, 2019.
  4. Wein AJ et al., eds. Male Infertility. In: Campbell-Walsh Urology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 5, 2019.
  5. Frequently asked questions. Gynecological problems FAQ137. Infertility treatment. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq137.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130521T1023327144. Accessed April 27, 2019.
  6. Frequently asked questions about infertility. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/Infertility. Accessed May 2, 2019.
  7. Kuohung W. et al. Infertility review. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed April 27, 2019.
  8. Evans-Hoeker EA et al. Major depression, use of antidepressants, and male and female infertility. Fertility and infertility. 2018? 109:879.
  9. Frequently asked questions. Gynecological problems FAQ136. Infertility assessment. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. https://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq136.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20130521T1027034009. Accessed April 27, 2019.
  10. Lobo RA. Infertility: etiology, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis. In: Integrative gynecology. 7th Edition, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Elsevier; 2017. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed May 5, 2019.
  11. Kuohung W. et al. Treatment of female infertility. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 5, 2019.
  12. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on Adolescent Health. Opinion of the Management Board no. 605: Primary ovarian failure in adolescents and young women. Obstetrics and gynecology. 2014? 124:193. This was confirmed in 2018.
  13. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Committee on the Practice of Gynecology: Committee on Practice of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Committee opinion no. 589: Age-related decline in female fertility. Obstetrics and gynecology. 2014? 123:719.
  14. Hornstein MD et al. Optimization of natural fertility in couples planning a pregnancy. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 5, 2019.
  15. Ask MayoExpert. Male infertility (adults). Rochester, Minnesota: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2017
  16. Ibanez-Perez J et al. The latest on the impact of physical activity on semen quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics. 2019? 299:901.
  17. Assisted Reproductive Technologies: A Guide for Patients. American Society of Reproductive Medicine. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/news-and-publications/patient-fact-sheets-and-booklets/documents/fact-sheets-and-info-booklets/assisted-reproductive-technologies-booklet/. Accessed April 27, 2019.
  18. Anawalt B et al. Treatment of male infertility. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed May 4, 2019.
  19. What is assisted reproductive technology? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/art/whatis.html. Accessed April 27, 2019.
  20. Multiple Pregnancy and Birth: Twins, Triplets and High Order Multiples - A Guide for Patients. American Society of Reproductive Medicine. https://www.asrm.org/topics/topics-index/multiple-births-or-multiple-gestation/. Accessed May 11, 2019.
  21. Galsta JP. The elusive link between stress and infertility: a research review with clinical implications. Journal of Integration Psychotherapy. 2018? 28:1.
  22. [PubMed] Warner KJ. All EPSi scripts. Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota. 28. svibnja,

Connected

  • Secondary infertility
  • Semen Allergy: Cause of Infertility?

Related procedures

  • genetic test
  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
  • Pelvic examination
  • Vasectomy reversal

News from the Mayo Clinic

  • Rochester Mayo Clinic Tops Newsweek's List of "America's Best Fertility Clinics" 15 marca 2023, 13:33 CDT

Infertility

  • Care at the Mayo Clinic

one D

Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Ad revenue supports our non-profit mission.

Advertising and sponsoring

CON-20198835

  • Infertility

FAQs

What are the 3 main causes of infertility? ›

Common causes of infertility include: lack of regular ovulation (the monthly release of an egg) poor quality semen. blocked or damaged fallopian tubes.

What are 5 causes of infertility? ›

Infertility is a condition where you can't get pregnant after one year of trying to conceive. Causes of infertility can include ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, low sperm count or low testosterone. The risk of infertility increases as you age.

What are signs that I might be infertile? ›

The main symptom of infertility is not getting pregnant. There may be no other obvious symptoms. Sometimes, women with infertility may have irregular or absent menstrual periods. In some cases, men with infertility may have some signs of hormonal problems, such as changes in hair growth or sexual function.

How do I know if I am infertile enough to get pregnant? ›

The main symptom of infertility is the inability to get pregnant. A menstrual cycle that's too long (35 days or more), too short (less than 21 days), irregular or absent can mean that you're not ovulating.

What is the biggest cause of infertility? ›

The most common overall cause of female infertility is the failure to ovulate, which occurs in 40% of women with infertility issues. Not ovulating can result from several causes, such as: Ovarian or gynecological conditions, such as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

What are 4 causes of female infertility? ›

What Causes Infertility? Problems with ovulation are the most common reasons for infertility in women. A woman's age, hormonal imbalances, weight, exposure to chemicals or radiation and cigarette smoking all have an impact on fertility.

Can stress cause infertility? ›

Does stress cause infertility? While it's unlikely that stress alone can cause infertility, stress interferes with a woman's ability to get pregnant. Research has shown that women with a history of depression are twice as likely to experience infertility. Anxiety also can prolong the time needed to achieve pregnancy.

Why is it so hard to get pregnant? ›

You could be worrying that you never will. However, there are many possible reasons why you aren't conceiving, including ovulation irregularities, structural problems in the reproductive system, low sperm count, underlying medical problems, or simply not trying enough.

Can infertility be cured? ›

In 85% to 90% of cases, infertility is treated with conventional medical therapies, such as medication or surgery. If fertility treatments are unsuccessful, it is possible to use eggs or sperm donated by a third party or to have another woman carry a fetus. Select a category of treatment to learn more.

Am I completely infertile? ›

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. If you or your female partner are over the age of 35, you should see a fertility specialist after six months. After age 40, we recommend seeking help right away because we know fertility declines as age increases.

How can I test myself for infertility? ›

Most at-home FSH tests are very similar to pregnancy tests administered at home. For easy testing, use a small cup to collect urine from the first urination of the day. Then dip the testing stick into the urine sample and place on a flat surface while the test results register.

How do doctors check if you are infertile? ›

Tests for infertility include laboratory tests, imaging tests, and certain procedures. Imaging tests and procedures look at the reproductive organs and how they work. Laboratory tests often involve testing samples of blood or semen.

What causes poor egg quality? ›

The main cause of poor egg quality is age, but it is not the only one; there can be other reasons too, including but not limited to pelvic radiation, ovarian surgery, any reproductive illness, genetic abnormalities, chemotherapy, excess consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and some unknown factors.

How long until you are considered infertile? ›

In general, infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant (conceive) after one year (or longer) of unprotected sex. Because fertility in women is known to decline steadily with age, some providers evaluate and treat women aged 35 years or older after 6 months of unprotected sex.

What are the chances of me being infertile? ›

Studies suggest that after 1 year of having unprotected sex, 12% to 15% of couples are unable to conceive, and after 2 years, 10% of couples still have not had a live-born baby. (In couples younger than age 30 who are generally healthy, 40% to 60% are able to conceive in the first 3 months of trying.5)

What are 3 ways to prevent infertility? ›

Reducing Your Risk of Infertility
  • Maintain a normal body weight. Weighing too much or too little can not only put your health at risk, but also can diminish your fertility.
  • Exercise. ...
  • Don't smoke. ...
  • Never have unprotected sex. ...
  • When you're ready to have children, don't delay. ...
  • Stay informed.

Why am I ovulating but not getting pregnant? ›

What if I am ovulating but still not getting pregnant? If you are ovulating but not getting pregnant, the cause is may be polycystic ovaries (PCO). Again it is not uncommon, since around 20% of women have the condition.

What diseases can make you infertile? ›

Infertility in women
  • polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
  • thyroid problems – both an overactive thyroid gland and an underactive thyroid gland can prevent ovulation.
  • premature ovarian failure – where the ovaries stop working before the age of 40.

Can anxiety disorders cause infertility? ›

Having anxiety and depression may contribute to infertility and the distress of infertility and treatment often leads to anxiety and depression. Up to 40% of women experiencing infertility have a psychiatric diagnosis, most often depression or anxiety.

Can depression affect fertility? ›

To be clear: Depression on its own doesn't cause infertility. However, according to a 2018 study , when a sperm-giving partner has severe depression, pregnancy rates drop slightly. Researchers think that may be because depression can make people less interested in sex.

What is unexplained infertility? ›

Unexplained infertility is when fertility testing hasn't found a cause to explain a person or couples infertility. Treatments include fertility medication, lifestyle changes, intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Why can't I get pregnant if everything is normal? ›

Dr Priti explained, “An unhealthy lifestyle, weight issues, high stress and confusion about the fertile period could be possible reasons for not getting pregnant.”

How hard is it realistically to get pregnant? ›

In general, your chances of conception are: 75 percent after 6 months of trying. 90 percent after 1 year of trying.

What drugs boost fertility? ›

Fertility drugs include:
  • Clomiphene citrate. Taken by mouth, this drug stimulates ovulation by causing the pituitary gland to release more FSH and LH , which stimulate the growth of an ovarian follicle containing an egg. ...
  • Gonadotropins. ...
  • Metformin. ...
  • Letrozole. ...
  • Bromocriptine.
Aug 27, 2021

How long can a woman be infertile? ›

A woman's peak reproductive years are between the late teens and late 20s. By age 30, fertility (the ability to get pregnant) starts to decline. This decline happens faster once you reach your mid-30s. By 45, fertility has declined so much that getting pregnant naturally is unlikely.

What stage are you most infertile? ›

Signs of ovulation
Day of cycleStageFertility
1–7menstruationleast fertile stage
8–9post-menstruationpossible to conceive
10–14days around ovulationmost fertile
15–16post-ovulationpossible to conceive
1 more row

What age do guys start shooting blanks? ›

Men start losing their fertility at age 40.

In a study of more than 1,900 couples, irrespective of the woman's age, IVF attempts involving men 40 or older failed 70 percent more often than IVF attempts involving men younger than 30.

What does infertile sperm look like? ›

Semen color

Yellow semen may also indicate urine in the semen. This can be an issue that requires attention from a fertility specialist, as it may indicate infertility. Pink or reddish-brown semen suggests that you may have some bleeding from or inflammation of your prostate.

What is the first test for infertility? ›

Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)

AMH has quickly become the 'gold standard' in fertility blood tests. Secreted by the small antral follicles in the ovary, AMH is present until a woman reaches menopause. Testing AMH gives a physician a good understanding of your ovarian function and egg reserve.

What is the first test for female infertility? ›

Tests for women

Hysterosalpingography, or HSG, is an X-ray test to outline the internal shape of the uterus and show whether the fallopian tubes are blocked.

Is infertility is Genetic? ›

Approximately 10 to 15 percent of couples experience infertility, with more than half of these cases being due to an underlying genetic issue. In these instances, the genetic cause could have been inherited.

Can my Obgyn tell if I'm infertile? ›

Your family doctor or gynecologist can test you for infertility, or refer you to a fertility specialist. Your local Planned Parenthood health center can also help you find fertility testing in your area.

Can Obgyn test fertility? ›

Your gynecologist can perform a preliminary fertility evaluation, according to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. A common problem for couples with fertility struggles is how to properly time intercourse with ovulation, says the National Infertility Association.

How much does it cost to test if you are infertile? ›

Compare the Best At-Home Fertility Tests
CompanyCostTime for Results
Pregmate Ovulation Test Strips Best on a Budget$11Immediate
Legacy For Today Best for Sperm Testing$2952 days
Mira Fertility Starter Kit Best for Ovulation$199Immediate
Fellow Semen Analysis Best Budget Sperm Test$18972 hours
5 more rows
May 11, 2023

At what age does egg quality decline? ›

Egg quality starts to decline at age 32 and decreases rapidly after 37. Advanced maternal age also heightens the risk of birth defects. Only 28 percent of women, and 35 percent of men, believe age is the number one contributor to female infertility, the AOA survey found.

How do you know if your eggs are weak? ›

There's no test for egg quality. The only way to know if an egg is chromosomally normal is to attempt to fertilize it, and, if fertilization is successful, to perform a genetic test on the embryo.

How do you tell how many eggs you have left? ›

There are two good ways to measure egg count: an antral follicle count and an AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) test. During an antral follicle count, a doctor uses ultrasound to count the visible follicles.

When is the most infertile time for a woman? ›

According to the Human Reproduction Journal, you are least likely to get pregnant on day 4 of your cycle, which suggests a 2 percent possibility of pregnancy. This aligns with the idea that your period offers the lowest chance of pregnancy [7].

Can you still have a baby if you are infertile? ›

An infertile woman or couple may also use donor embryos. These are embryos that were either created by couples in infertility treatment or were created from donor sperm and donor eggs. The donated embryo is transferred to the uterus. The child will not be genetically related to either parent.

What questions should I ask my Obgyn about infertility? ›

Do I need any medical tests or vaccines before trying to conceive? Will mental stress or other mental health conditions affect my chances of pregnancy? Will a previous miscarriage affect my chances of conception? What are my risks with conception if I have had a prior ectopic pregnancy?

Why do I have so much infertility? ›

Lifestyle factors are having an impact

Smoking and being either over-weight or significantly under-weight are known to have the biggest impact on fertility and the chances of conception. “Poor nutrition, increased BMI, smoking and excessive alcohol and drug use are major factors contributing to infertility.

What age does a woman stop being fertile? ›

A woman's peak reproductive years are between the late teens and late 20s. By age 30, fertility (the ability to get pregnant) starts to decline. This decline happens faster once you reach your mid-30s. By 45, fertility has declined so much that getting pregnant naturally is unlikely.

What makes a woman more fertile? ›

Eating more protein from vegetable sources, instead of animal sources, may improve fertility levels in women. Replacing low fat dairy products with high fat versions may help improve fertility and increase your chances of getting pregnant.

How do you test if a woman is infertile? ›

Tests to find out the cause of infertility in women include:
  1. Blood tests. Samples of your blood can be tested for a hormone called progesterone to check whether you're ovulating. ...
  2. Chlamydia test. Chlamydia is an STI that can affect fertility. ...
  3. Ultrasound scan. ...
  4. X-ray. ...
  5. Laparoscopy.

How do I know if I'm fertile female? ›

If your menstrual cycle lasts 28 days and your period arrives like clockwork, it's likely that you'll ovulate on day 14. That's halfway through your cycle. Your fertile window begins on day 10. You're more likely to get pregnant if you have sex at least every other day between days 10 and 14 of a 28-day cycle.

What age are men most fertile? ›

Peak male fertility is around 25-29 years old. Sperm quality begins to decline at 30. At 45, men begin to experience a significant decrease in semen volume. Older men can also take longer to conceive a child.

What is the most fertile female body type? ›

Scientists have theorized that a low waist-to-hip ratio is associated with heightened fertility. That is, women with an hourglass figure are more likely to be able to conceive a child. The idea is that men who are drawn to women with hourglass figures will have more children.

Does caffeine affect fertility? ›

Experts advise limiting caffeine if you're trying to conceive and during pregnancy. Some studies have found that women who drink large amounts of caffeine may take longer to become pregnant and have a slightly higher risk of miscarriage and low birth weight.

Do prenatal vitamins make you more fertile? ›

There is no data suggesting a prenatal vitamin will increase your fertility. The goal of taking a prenatal vitamin when trying to conceive is to aid in a healthy diet to make sure you have enough of the vitamins you need when you conceive and to allow you to have the healthiest pregnancy possible.

How can I keep myself fertile? ›

To protect your fertility:
  1. Don't smoke. Tobacco use is associated with lower fertility. ...
  2. Limit the amount of alcohol you drink. ...
  3. Curb caffeine. Female fertility doesn't seem to be affected by caffeine intake below 200 milligrams a day. ...
  4. Be wary of overexercise. ...
  5. Avoid exposure to toxins.

How do you clear infertility? ›

There are 3 main types of fertility treatment:
  1. medicines.
  2. surgical procedures.
  3. assisted conception – including intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (IVF)

How do I keep trying to get pregnant? ›

Have sex regularly. The highest pregnancy rates occur in couples who have sex every day or every other day. Have sex near the time of ovulation. If having sex every day isn't possible — or enjoyable — have sex every 2 to 3 days a week starting soon after the end of your period.

Why am I not getting pregnant and I have kids? ›

You could be worrying that you never will. However, there are many possible reasons why you aren't conceiving, including ovulation irregularities, structural problems in the reproductive system, low sperm count, underlying medical problems, or simply not trying enough.

What can cause unexplained infertility? ›

Causes of unexplained infertility
  • Ovulation problems.
  • Poor egg quality.
  • Poor sperm quality.
  • Insufficient frequency of sexual intercourse or intercourse not timed to coincide with ovulation – learn more about how to get pregnant.
  • Problems with pelvic health, primarily with the fallopian tubes or uterus.

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Gregorio Kreiger

Last Updated: 06/26/2023

Views: 5699

Rating: 4.7 / 5 (77 voted)

Reviews: 92% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Gregorio Kreiger

Birthday: 1994-12-18

Address: 89212 Tracey Ramp, Sunside, MT 08453-0951

Phone: +9014805370218

Job: Customer Designer

Hobby: Mountain biking, Orienteering, Hiking, Sewing, Backpacking, Mushroom hunting, Backpacking

Introduction: My name is Gregorio Kreiger, I am a tender, brainy, enthusiastic, combative, agreeable, gentle, gentle person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.