Getting Pregnant

Becoming pregnant is a complex process. For a couple to achieve a pregnancy, a number of physiological processes must be functioning normally. The female partner must have normal ovulation (production of an egg) and the male must produce enough normal sperm with sufficient motility so as to fertilize the egg. The female should have normal fallopian tubes that are able to pick up the egg from the ovary and allow the passage of the sperm towards the egg so that fertilization can take place. The fertilized egg travels down the tube towards the uterus, which is the site for embryo implantation. It is such a complicated process that even for a normal fertile couple having regular unprotected intercourse, the chance of becoming pregnant within one ovulatory cycle is only around 20%.

Nonetheless, "infertility" is diagnosed when no pregnancy has occurred after 1 year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. This definition is based on the statistical observation that about 85% of couples in the general population will conceive by that stage. Although some of these couples in the remaining 15% will conceive in a later stage, the majority will have one or more contributing problems. Investigations are therefore performed to exclude abnormalities and to prepare for further interventions if necessary.

Infertility is a common condition, affecting 1 in every 6 couples. The infertility rate increases with advancing female age. Treatment for infertility is also less effective for older women. Moreover, risk of miscarriage is higher in women aged 35 or more. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek early medical help.

^ Back To Top

Whose Problem Is It?

Infertility is a problem that partners should face together. Both partners need to undergo investigations. Infertility and its treatment are stressful for both partners and it is important that the couple face it together and support each other.

There are many different causes of infertility (see Causes section). Statistically, 30% of infertility cases are related to combined problems in both partners, 30% are related to male factors, 30% are related to female factors, and 10% of cases are unexplained.

Male infertility is usually reflected in semen abnormalilties, while female infertility problems include ovulation disorders, tubal damage, and endometriosis.

^ Back To Top

Age

Infertility and age (of the female partner) are closely related. The chance of infertility increases after the age of 35. Fertility is even lower at age 40 years or above. Delaying childbearing increases the chance of infertility, as well as the chance of miscarriage.

Although assisted reproductive technologies are available that can overcome many infertility problems, the success rate drops as the age of the female partner increases. The earlier that a problem is detected, the better the chance of the treatment being successful.

^ Back To Top

What Can I Do?

If you have not become pregnant after 1 year of regular intercourse, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible. Women over age 35 years may consider a medical opinion earlier than this.

^ Back To Top