If you and your partner are struggling to have a baby, you're not alone. In the United States, 10% to 15% of couples are infertile. Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant despite having frequent, unprotected sex for at least a year for most couples.
Infertility may result from an issue with either you or your partner, or a combination of factors that prevent pregnancy. Fortunately, there are many safe and effective therapies that significantly improve your chances of getting pregnant.

When to see a doctor

You probably don't need to see a doctor about infertility unless you have been trying regularly to get pregnant for at least one year. Women should talk with a doctor earlier, however, if they:

• * Are age 35 or older and have been trying to conceive for six months or longer
• * Are over age 40
• * Have irregular or absent periods
• * Have very painful periods
• * Have known fertility problems
• * Have been diagnosed with endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
• * Have had multiple miscarriages
• * Have undergone treatment for cancer

Men should talk to a doctor if they have:

• * A low sperm count or other problems with sperm
• * A history of testicular, prostate or sexual problems
• * Undergone treatment for cancer
• * Small testicles or swelling in the scrotum
• * Others in your family with infertility problems