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Infertility (Female)
Difficulty conceiving after a year of trying (or six months if over 35) is common and often treatable. Many couples go on to have a baby with the right help.
Causes & risk factors
- Ovulation problems, often from PCOS or thyroid issues
- Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes (often after infection)
- Endometriosis
- Fibroids or problems with the uterus
- Age-related decline in egg quality
- Sometimes a male-factor or unexplained cause
Common symptoms
- Difficulty conceiving despite regular trying
- Irregular or absent periods
- Pelvic pain
- Very painful periods
- Signs of hormone imbalance (acne, extra hair)
Tests & diagnosis
- Thyroid function (TFT)
- Testosterone / androgens
- Hormone profile (FSH, LH, AMH, prolactin)
- Pelvic ultrasound
- Tubal patency test (HSG)
- Partner’s semen analysis
Treatment & management
- Lifestyle: healthy weight, no smoking, limited alcohol
- Tracking ovulation to time intercourse
- Medicines to help ovulation
- Treat underlying causes such as PCOS, fibroids or endometriosis
- Assisted conception (IUI or IVF) when needed
- Emotional support throughout — it can be stressful
When to see a doctor urgently
- Trying for over a year without success (six months if over 35)
- Irregular, absent or very painful periods
- A known problem such as endometriosis or previous pelvic infection
- Two or more miscarriages
Frequently asked questions
Is infertility always the woman’s issue?
No. Roughly a third of cases relate to the woman, a third to the man, and the rest are shared or unexplained. Both partners should be assessed together.
When should we seek help?
After a year of regular unprotected sex without conceiving, or after six months if the woman is over 35. Seek help sooner if there are known problems like irregular periods or past pelvic infection.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.