Trying to get pregnant can feel simple in theory, but in reality, it’s not always that easy. You might feel like everyone around you is conceiving effortlessly, while you’re left wondering why it’s taking longer.



It’s important to remember that struggling to get pregnant is actually pretty common, and it doesn’t mean there’s anything “wrong” with you or your partner. Learning how your body works, what factors can affect conception, and when to seek help can help identify the cause of infertility and the right treatment approach.



What Are the Types of Infertility?Infertility can show up in different ways, depending on your situation:

• Primary infertility: This is when you’ve never been pregnant and can’t conceive after a year of trying (or six months if you’re over 35) despite regular, unprotected intercourse.
• Secondary infertility: You’ve had at least one successful pregnancy in the past but are now unable to conceive again or carry a pregnancy to term.
• Unexplained infertility: Even after thorough testing, no clear reason is found for why you’re not getting pregnant. This affects 30 per cent of couples and can be frustrating due to the lack of a specific cause.

What are the Causes of Female Infertility?Infertility in women can happen from issues at any stage of the conception process, from ovulation to implantation.



These are some common reasons:

• Endometriosis: This condition occurs when tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus. It can cause inflammation, scarring, or blockages in the ovaries or fallopian tubes, making conception difficult. About 30 to 50 per cent of individuals with endometriosis face infertility.
• Ovulation disorders: If your body isn’t releasing eggs regularly, getting pregnant becomes difficult. Conditions like PCOS, thyroid issues, excessive exercise, eating disorders, or being underweight or overweight can all affect ovulation.
• Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes: If the fallopian tubes are scarred or blocked, sperm can’t reach the egg. Causes include pelvic inflammatory disease (often from sexually transmitted infections), endometriosis, or previous surgeries.
• Uterine or cervical issues: Abnormalities like uterine fibroids, polyps, or an irregularly shaped uterus can stop a fertilised egg from implanting. Scar tissue from past infections or surgeries can also get in the way.
• Premature ovarian failure: Menstruation may stop and egg production declines if your ovaries stop functioning before age 40. Symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, or vaginal dryness, reducing the chances of conception.
• Luteal phase defect: A short luteal phase (the time after ovulation) can prevent a fertilised egg from implanting properly because of insufficient progesterone levels.
• Cervical mucus problems: Poor-quality cervical mucus can block sperm or fail to support their journey to the egg, making fertilisation harder.

What are the Causes of Male Infertility?Male infertility accounts for about a third of infertility cases. Take a look at the possible reasons:

• Abnormal sperm production: Low sperm count, poor motility (movement), or abnormal sperm shape can reduce fertility. Causes include genetic issues, undescended testicles, infections like chlamydia or mumps, diabetes, or enlarged veins in the scrotum (varicocele).
• Sperm delivery problems: Issues like premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or blockages in the reproductive tract can prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis or injuries to the reproductive organs may also play a role.
• Environmental and lifestyle factors: Exposure to toxins like pesticides, radiation, or excessive heat (from tight clothing) can harm sperm production. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, anabolic steroids, or certain medications for high blood pressure or depression can also lower fertility.

Why Does Age Affect Fertility?Age is an important factor for both men and women. For women, fertility peaks in their 20s and starts declining in their mid-30s, dropping sharply after 37. This is because the number and quality of eggs decrease over time. By 40, it’s less than 5 per cent.



For men, fertility begins to decline after 40 due to reduced sperm quality. Though the decline is slower compared to women.



How Do Lifestyle Choices Impact Fertility?Your everyday habits can actually affect your chances of getting pregnant. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Weight issues: Being overweight or underweight can disrupt ovulation in women and lower sperm count in men.
• Unhealthy habits: Smoking, excessive alcohol, or recreational drugs can impair ovulation and sperm health. Even high caffeine intake may reduce fertility.
• Stress: Chronic stress affects ovulation in women and causes erectile issues in men.
• Poor diet or sleep: A diet lacking in nutrients or poor sleep can mess with your hormonal balance, making it harder to conceive.

Can Medical Conditions Affect Fertility?

Some health conditions can make getting pregnant more difficult:

• Thyroid disorders: Both overactive and underactive thyroids can disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles.
• Chronic conditions: Diseases like diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders can interfere with fertility in both men and women.
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Untreated infections like chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, which may damage fallopian tubes. In men, STIs can affect sperm health.
• Medications: Some drugs can impact ovulation or sperm production.

Trying to get pregnant and not seeing a positive test result can feel really lonely, but you’re definitely not alone. Most couples do conceive with the right medical guidance. You can consult a fertility specialist to figure out the best approach for your situation.



Whether you’re trying to conceive or navigating IVF, you’re not alone. Join our supportive communities to connect, share, and find strength with others on the same journey.



FAQs on Understanding Infertility: Reasons You May Not be Getting Pregnant

When to consult a fertility specialist?

It’s time to see a doctor if you’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after a year of trying, or over 35 and haven’t succeeded after six months.

Are fertility problems always permanent?

Not always. Many causes of infertility are treatable with medication, lifestyle changes, or medical procedures.