If you’re trying for a baby, chances are, you’re worried it won’t happen for you. As each month passes, and another period comes, you’re probably becoming disheartened, but don’t worry because slow conception isn’t always an indication of fertility problems.
How long will it take to get pregnant?
If 100 women all started to actively try to get pregnant from today, the following averages would apply to conception:
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25% within the first month
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60% in six months
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75% in nine months
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80% in the first year
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90% within eighteen months
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95% within two years
It can take up to two years for a perfectly healthy couple to conceive, so try not to worry too much if you aren’t having any luck getting pregnant before then.
What can delay conception
There are a variety of factors that can delay conception, such as:
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Your age – if you are 35 or over, you are more likely to suffer fertility problems, and this risk increases further once you reach 40.
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Your partner’s age – although male fertility decreases later and more slowly than women’s, it could still be the cause of your delayed conception. Men aged 41 and over have an increased risk of fertility problems.
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Diet, lifestyle and job – this applies to both you and your partner. Poor diets, unhealthy lifestyle and excessive work stress can all increase the risk of fertility problems. In simple terms, you need to take care of yourself to make a baby.
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Chronic illness – if you suffer from chronic illnesses, you may be more likely to face problems trying to conceive. Speak to your GP if this applies to you.
It can take up to two years to conceive and not indicate any fertility problems. After one year of trying, you can go to see your GP to ask about your options, but they may simply send you away with the advice to keep trying. Depending on your age and fertility risk factors, they may agree to perform tests to determine if there are any fertility problems delayed pregnancy. If you are over 35, or have a history of polycystic ovaries, you should seek help before one year of trying.
In the meantime, try not to fret each month away. Enjoy your sex life, try to have sex every few days to maximise your chances of conceiving.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2013. All rights reserved.
