Health 101: Infertility in Women

If you've been struggling to get pregnant, you've probably got lots of questions. Here, find out what causes infertility, how to reduce your risk of infertility, when to see a doctor for infertility, how you may be treated for infertility, and more.

By Lauren Gelman

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What is infertility?

Infertility is a medical condition in which a couple is unable to conceive a baby. Experts don't consider a couple to have fertility problems until they've been actively trying to get pregnant for at least one year, or if the woman is older than 35, for more than six months. Some couples who experience recurrent miscarriages may also be considered infertile and should seek help from their doctor or a fertility expert.

Experiencing infertility, though, doesn't mean you won't ever have a baby. For some couples, it just takes longer; for others, it may require drugs, surgery, or high-tech help. Take heart in the following stats from the Mayo Clinic:

After 12 months of unprotected sex, about 85 percent of couples will get pregnant.
Of the remaining 15 percent, about half will get pregnant over the next three years, using methods like medications, surgery, assisted reproductive technology, or even naturally.

According to other research, about two-thirds of all couples who seek treatment for fertility problems are able to have a baby eventually.

Next: Are men or women more likely to experience infertility?

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