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![]() For many couples planning a baby, conception occurs quite easily within a few months of "trying." The average chance to conceive for a normally fertile couple having regular, unprotected intercourse is approximately 25 percent during each menstrual cycle. For others, conception is not so simple. About 12 percent of couples of childbearing age are unable to conceive within 12 months, a condition called infertility. Infertility is not just a woman's problem. In about 40 percent of infertile couples, a problem with the male is the sole cause, or a contributing cause, of infertility. About 25 percent of infertile couples have more than one cause or factor related to their inability to conceive. About 10 percent to 15 percent of couples have no identifiable cause for their infertility after medical investigation. When conception does not occur after one year of unprotected intercourse, after six months in women over age 35, or if there are known problems causing infertility, it's recommended for both partners to undergo a medical evaluation. Your health care provider will try to determine if you are ovulating regularly, your partner is producing healthy, viable sperm, the egg and sperm are able to unite and grow normally, or if there are any obstacles to proper implantation and maintenance of the pregnancy. If you suspect you are experiencing infertility, seek medical consultation early. Your age and the duration of the infertility sometimes can affect the outcome of treatment. Many different factors and problems can cause infertility, including problems in the female reproductive system, the male reproductive system, or a combination of the two. The following are some of the conditions or factors that may be associated with infertility: |
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Female Factors |
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Male Factors |
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