Patient Factsheet teaser

Defining Infertility

Revised 2023


What is infertility?

Infertility can be defined as:

  1. The inability to achieve a successful pregnancy is based on multiple different factors, including but not limited to your health, age, physical findings, and test results.
  2. The need for medical help to conceive, like using donor eggs, donor embryos, or donor sperm to become pregnant, either on your own or with a partner.
  3. For heterosexual couples, if you’re having regular, unprotected sex and are unable to become pregnant, it’s time to seek help. This should start after 12 months if the person with ovaries is under 35 years old and after 6 months if the person with ovaries is 35 or older.

1 out of 9.pngHow common is it?

Infertility affects 10%-15% of heterosexual couples. This makes it one of the most common diseases for people between the ages of 20 and 45. In addition, the longer someone tries to get pregnant without conceiving, the lower the chances are to get pregnant without medical treatment. Most (85%) couples with normal fertility will conceive within a year of trying. If a couple doesn’t conceive in the first year, their chance of conceiving gets lower each month.

What can cause infertility?

Age

Age can have a big effect on the ability to have a baby, especially since egg quality and number decline in the 30s and 40s. For a healthy person in their 20s or early 30s, the chance of conceiving each month is 25%-30%. At 40 years old, however, the chances are 10% or less.

Ovulation Problems

Ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) typically occurs about once a month. Problems like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disease, and other hormonal disorders can affect ovulation and lead to infertility. Not having a regular menstrual period may be a sign of not ovulating. A person’s weight may also increase the risk of having a problem with ovulation. If periods are not occurring regularly, an individual may want to see a doctor who specializes in fertility (a reproductive endocrinologist) in the first year of trying to get pregnant.

Damaged or Blocked Fallopian Tubes

Fallopian tubes are the tubes attached to the uterus where the sperm and egg usually meet. Blocked or damaged tubes can cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the uterus). The chances of having blocked tubes are higher with a history of endometriosis, surgery in the pelvis, or sexually transmitted infections (like gonorrhea or chlamydia).

If there is a concern about the health of your tubes, you should discuss this with your doctor early in the process of trying to get pregnant.

Issues with sperm and/or ejaculation

Male and Female Infertility Graphic.png

A third of all cases of infertility are because of a problem with a partner’s sperm. In another third of cases, infertility is due to a combination of problems in both partners. There may be difficulty in making sperm or with ejaculation (the release of semen from the penis). Sperm quality is measured by the amount, the movement, and the shape of sperm. Sometimes other medical problems can affect the ability to make normal amounts or normal quality sperm. Diabetes, for instance, might result in trouble ejaculating. Cystic fibrosis might result in a blockage that prevents the sperm from being ejaculated. Being overweight, smoking, and marijuana use increases the chances of having problems with sperm quantity and quality.

What can I do about my infertility?

Going to see a fertility specialist may help a couple figure out why they’re not conceiving. Women and people with ovaries and/or a uterus should start by seeing a reproductive endocrinologist. Men and people with sperm should see a reproductive urologist who specializes in fertility, especially if a prior semen analysis was not normal. In some (10% or more) cases, though, there may not be an obvious reason why a couple can’t conceive. This is known as unexplained infertility. Fertility treatments can still help couples with unexplained infertility.

When should I see a specialist?

Generally, a couple should see a reproductive endocrinologist if they have not been able to conceive within 12 months of trying (or after 6 months of trying after the age of 35).

Infertility_disease.pngA family history of early menopause, health problems that can cause early menopause, or a history of cancer treatment in either partner, are other reasons to consider seeking fertility advice sooner.

A couple might also seek a fertility consultation sooner if there is a risk for infertility such as irregular menstrual cycles or potential risk for fallopian tube damage. Childhood problems with the testicles or difficulty with sexual function are other reasons someone may consider an evaluation sooner.

For more in-depth information about infertility and infertility testing, please see the ASRM booklet titled “Infertility: An Overview.” For more information about fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI), please see the ASRM booklet titled “Assisted Reproductive Technologies.”

Fact Sheets/Booklets

View more fact sheets and booklets written by the ASRM Patient Education Committee.
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Menopausal Transition (Perimenopause): What Is It?

The menopausal transition (perimenopause) is the period that links a woman’s reproductive (childbearing) years and menopause.
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Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions of having low bone mass (density).
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Hyperprolactinemia (High Prolactin Levels)

Prolactin is a hormone produced by your pituitary gland which sits at the bottom of the brain.
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Stress and infertility

It is not clear how exactly stress impacts fertility.

Resources For You

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is committed to providing patients with the highest quality information about reproductive care.

Infertility

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SART Fertility Experts - Military Families and Fertility

Active-duty individuals in the military sometimes face unique circumstances when seeking fertility care. Learn more with a former military fertility physician. Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Q&A on Infertility

Infertility can create many questions for a patient.  Listen to common questions and answers about infertility, egg freezing, and genetic testing.   Listen to the Episode
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Fertility Care Gets Important Win in California

ASRM celebrates California's SB 729, expanding IVF coverage for same-sex couples and singles, advancing equitable fertility care access.

View the Press Release
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National Infertility Awareness Week

April 20-26, 2025, is National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW)! 

View the NIAW Toolkit
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ASRM announces support for HOPE with Fertility Services Act

The American Society for Reproductive Medicine is proud to endorse the HOPE with Fertility Services Act (HR 8821).

View the Press Release
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SART Fertility Experts - Environmental Impacts on Fertility

In this episode, the fertility experts discuss the impact of the environment, including air, climate, and chemical exposures on infertility.   Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Implantation Failure

"I can get pregnant, but I can't stay pregnant," is echoed by patients with recurrent pregnancy loss.   Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Wellness and Fertility: Diet, Sleep and Exercise

Drs. Timothy Hickman and Rashmi Kudesia discuss the links between lifestyle and fertility. Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Navigating IVF as a Couple

Mary Casey Jacob, PhD is interviewed by Dr. Daniel Grow, and together they explore the emotional and practical support that couples need. Listen to the Episode
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Male Fertility Journey

About 20% of infertility cases are due to a male factor alone. Another 30% involves both male and female factors.

View the Patient Journey
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Female Fertility Journey

If you've been trying to get pregnant for more than a year, you may have infertility. Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system that impairs one of the body's most basic functions: the conception of children.

View the Patient Journey
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Stress and infertility

It is not clear how exactly stress impacts fertility. Read the Fact Sheet
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Hyperprolactinemia (High Prolactin Levels)

Prolactin is a hormone produced by your pituitary gland which sits at the bottom of the brain. Read the fact sheet
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Optimizing Natural Fertility

Before attempting pregnancy, a woman should make sure she is healthy enough for pregnancy by adopting a healthier lifestyle and taking prenatal vitamins. If she has a medical or genetic condition or risk of one, she should seek advice from a medical professional before conceiving (becoming pregnant) View the fact sheet
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Optimizing Male Fertility

About 20% of infertility cases are due to a male factor alone. Another 30% involves both male and female factors. View the fact sheet
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Fertility Rights and Responsibilities

Can a fertility program or clinic deny treatment to patient(s) if there is concern about the ability to care for the child(ren)? Yes. Fertility programs can withhold services if there are signs that patients will not be able to care for child(ren). View this Fact Sheet
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Male Fertility Evaluation: What do I need to know?

Infertility is the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected sex. View the fact sheet
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Smoking and infertility

Most people understand that smoking increases the risk for heart, vascular, and lung disease. View the fact sheet
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What are fibroids?

Uterine fibroids (also called myomas or leiomyomas) are benign (noncancerous) tumors of muscle tissue found in the uterus. View the fact sheet
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Infertility Counseling and Support: When and Where to Find It

Infertility is a medical condition that touches all aspects of your life. View the fact sheet
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What is In Vitro Maturation (IVM)?

In vitro maturation (IVM) is when a woman’s eggs are collected and matured outside the body. This is done as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. View the fact sheet
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SART Fertility Experts - Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition that can affect many facets of a person’s life, from pelvic pain to struggles with infertility.   Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss

Candace discusses her experience with infertility, IVF, multiple pregnancy losses and ultimately a successful delivery with Dr. Julia Woodward.
Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Financial Aspects of Infertility Treatment

“I know what treatment I want and need to do, but how can I afford it?”  This is a common question infertility patients often ask themselves. Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs

In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - Your Infertility Nurse: Partner in Your Care

Infertility nurse practitioner and health coach Monica Moore explains the essential role of the infertility nurse in the IVF process.  Listen to the Episode
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Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)

A procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be done along with in vitro fertilization (IVF) if a sperm cannot penetrate the outer layer of an egg. Read the Fact Sheet
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SART Fertility Experts - IVF: Cycles of Hope and Heartbreak

Does stress cause infertility or is it the other way round?  Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - RESOLVE and Infertility

Due to the unique stress of infertility, patients often look for resources and support in addition to those provided by their medical provider. Listen to the Episode
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What is Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL)?

This is a condition when a woman has 2 or more clinical pregnancy losses (miscarriages) before the pregnancies reach 20 weeks. View the fact sheet
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What is Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (Previously Called Premature Ovarian Failure)?

When a woman’s ovaries stop working before age 40, she is said to have premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).  View the fact sheet
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Saline infusion sonohysterogram (SHG)

Saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS or SHG) is aprocedure to evaluate the uterus and the shape of the uterine cavity. View the fact sheet
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Testosterone use and male infertility

Testosterone (also referred to as “T”) is a hormone produced in men by the testes (testicles). View the fact sheet
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SART Fertility Experts - Safe Surfing: The Pros and Perils of Social Media

Dr. Kenan Omurtag, MD joins host Dr. Mark Trolice to discuss the use of social media in the field of infertility.  Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts - What is an REI?

These experts in infertility lead IVF programs, perform reproductive surgery, and perform research to enhance the field of reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode
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SART Fertility Experts Teaser

An educational project of SART, this series is designed to provide up-to-date information about various topics related to fertility testing and treatment.
Listen to the Episode
Videos Icon

Stress and Infertility

Medical procedures, cost, outcome uncertainty, and unwanted or unhelpful advice from friends and family are stressors associated with infertility treatment. Watch Video
Patient Ed Icon

Infertility: an Overview (booklet)

Infertility is typically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse. View the booklet
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Male Fertility and Infertility - a patient education video

Male Factor Infertility is responsible for about 30% of infertility cases and can contribute infertility to an additional 20% of cases. Watch Video
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Infertility

Infertility is the result of a disease (an interruption, cessation, or disorder of body functions, systems, or organs) of the male or female reproductive tract which prevents the conception of a child or the ability to carry a pregnancy to delivery.  Watch Video
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Basic Infertility Evaluation

Dr. Roger Lobo of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses the various methods to evaluate infertility. Watch Video
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Fibroid Tumors

An educational video that answers patient questions about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and management of uterine fibroids. Watch Video
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Infertility Treatments

Dr. Roger Lobo of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses the various treatments for infertility. Watch Video
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Understanding Fertility

In this video series, Dr. Roger Lobo explains the basics of infertility, including causes, treatments and coping methods. Watch Video
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Surviving the Roller Coaster Emotions of Infertility Treatment

The experience of infertility is a rollercoaster of hope and disappointment. Treatment presents an opportunity for hope as well as a new set of challenges. Watch Video
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Acupuncture and Infertility Treatment

Acupuncture is an alternative medical treatment that involves placing very thin needles at different points on the body. View the Fact Sheet
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Sexual dysfunction and infertility

Sexual dysfunction is a problem in a person’s sexual desire, arousal, or orgasm. View the fact sheet
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Coping With Infertility

Dr. Roger Lobo of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine discusses various methods of coping with infertility. Watch Video
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Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a condition in which endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, develops outside of the uterine cavity in abnormal locations. Watch Video
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Causes of Female Infertility

Dr. Roger Lobo, of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine explains the causes of female infertility. Watch Video
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Age and Fertility (booklet)

Generally, reproductive potential decreases as women get older, and fertility can be expected to end 5 to 10 years before menopause. View the Booklet
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Causes of Male Infertility

Dr. Roger Lobo, of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine explains the causes of male infertility. Watch Video
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FAQ About Infertility

Infertility is not an inconvenience; it's a disease of the reproductive system that impairs the body's ability to perform the basic function of reproduction. Learn the facts
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FAQ About the Psychological Component of Infertility

Infertility often creates one of the most distressing life crises that a couple has ever experienced together. Learn the facts
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Mary Dolan's Story

I was diagnosed with diminished ovarian reserve/premature ovarian failure at 28 years old.
Read the story
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Infertility Infographics

ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of Infertility better. View the infographics

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