From a physiological perspective, conception is a complex process. Even in entirely healthy partners, it often does not occur immediately – normally, within 12 months of regular sexual activity. If pregnancy has not occurred during this time, it is advisable to consult a doctor and undergo an examination. Women over 35 years of age are recommended to do this within six months.
Failure to Achieve Pregnancy: Possible Causes
There are many possible reasons why pregnancy may not occur. Primarily, these are diseases related to reproductive system pathology. However, there is also infertility of unclear origin (when the cause cannot be determined).
Currently, the prevalence of female and male infertility coincides and stands at 30%. In as many cases, fertility issues affect both partners.
Each case is individual, and without thorough diagnostics, determining the source of the problem is practically impossible.
Diseases that Can Interfere with Pregnancy
Infertility is the result of various pathologies in the body. In some cases, they may manifest in a hidden form, and the woman may feel healthy.
The reasons for failure to achieve pregnancy may include:
- Ovulation disorders – anovulatory cycles, which may be associated with polycystic ovary syndrome or hyperprolactinemia;
- Obstruction of the fallopian tubes and/or adhesion formation in the pelvis;
- Sexually transmitted infections (chlamydia, mycoplasma, and others) leading to chronic inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs;
- Endometriosis – the growth of endometrial tissue outside the uterus;
- Thyroid gland disorders and other endocrine pathologies affecting the production of sex hormones;
- Uterine abnormalities such as fibroids, polyps, and synechiae;
- Autoimmune diseases;
- Genetic disorders;
- Male sperm abnormalities, including decreased sperm count, motility, and quality.
In approximately 10% of cases, a couple may not have any physiological disorders that could interfere with pregnancy. This form of infertility is called idiopathic.
If achieving pregnancy is unsuccessful, it is essential to first consult a doctor and undergo examination. However, it is also important not to overlook the psychological factor. The female body is a highly complex system, and it has been proven that psychological issues can affect fertility. Such factors may include:
- Chronic stress, including stress related to a strong desire to conceive and frequent disappointments;
- Increased anxiety;
- Fear of complications during pregnancy and childbirth;
- Negative experiences such as pregnancy loss or child loss in the past;
- Feelings of unpreparedness for motherhood;
- Fear of life changes;
- Hidden reluctance to have children due to negative experiences in the family, and so on.
Each individual is unique, and their mental and physical state is shaped by a multitude of life events. Identifying the exact cause of infertility or ruling it out without the help of a specialist is not possible. It requires delicate and comprehensive teamwork.
Male Factor in Conception Issues
In 30% of cases, pregnancy does not occur in a couple due to the male’s medical conditions.
When consulting a reproductive specialist, both partners undergo examinations. For initial diagnostics, it is sufficient to conduct a sperm analysis – a laboratory test of semen that assesses the quality, quantity, and activity of spermatozoa. If all indicators are within normal ranges, the man is likely healthy. Additional examinations are prescribed in case of significant deviations.
The causes of conception problems in men may include:
- Inflammation of the prostate gland (prostatitis);
- Inflammation of the testicles (orchitis);
- Varicose veins in the spermatic cord (varicocele);
- Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism);
- Infectious diseases of the genitourinary system;
- Injuries to the groin area, including old injuries;
- Endocrine disorders;
- Genetic, autoimmune disorders, and so on.
Unable to Get Pregnant: Necessary Actions
During pregnancy planning, it is recommended for women to undergo examinations with a gynecologist and for men with a urologist. This allows for the exclusion or timely treatment of conditions that may hinder conception and pregnancy maintenance.
If a couple has been trying to conceive for 6-12 months without success, they should consult a reproductive specialist. Doctors in this field specialize in diagnosing and treating both female and male infertility.
Both partners should attend the first appointment together, but if desired, the woman can visit the doctor alone for the initial visit. At ICSI Clinic, primary consultations are even available online.
During the consultation, the doctor will inquire about the duration of unsuccessful attempts at pregnancy, any chronic illnesses, previous surgeries, and so on. After gathering the medical history, the doctor will prescribe a list of examinations.
Women typically undergo:
- gynecological examination;
- vaginal smear analysis for microflora;
- cytological analysis of cervical scrapings (PAP test);
- blood hormone analysis for thyroid gland hormones, prolactin, anti-Mullerian hormone;
- pelvic ultrasound and other examinations as indicated.
During the first visit, the man provides sperm for testing.
What to do if the couple is healthy, but pregnancy is not occurring?
Apart from existing diseases, pregnancy in a couple may not occur due to genetic and immunological pathologies. These are rare cases, so such diagnostics are usually conducted after standard examinations.
Today, reproductive medicine offers a wide range of tools for treatment, including various types of infertility. Successful fertilization can be achieved through intrauterine insemination or IVF.
In any case, if conception is not successful for a long time, it is necessary to consult a specialist. Sometimes the cause can be treated successfully with medication, after which conception in the couple occurs naturally.
If both partners are completely healthy and there are no physiological reasons for conception problems, you can:
- Seek a second opinion – consult another qualified reproductive specialist. The doctor will review the medical history and may prescribe additional examinations. Infertility has many causes, so sometimes a very thorough diagnosis of both partners is necessary.
- Use assisted reproductive technologies – if indicated, couples may be recommended for intrauterine insemination, IVF, and other therapy options.
In Kyiv, you can undergo a comprehensive examination on state-of-the-art equipment and consult with a reproductive specialist with over 25 years of experience at ICSI Clinic. This is a specialized center for reproductive medicine, opened in 1998. The clinic conducts a full range of examinations and applies all types of assisted reproductive technologies. Many experts have been working since the opening and are involved in both practical and scientific activities. Their developed methodologies have further increased the effectiveness of treatment, making the clinic a leader in artificial fertilization results in Ukraine for 20 years.
Schedule a consultation with a reproductive specialist now – take a step towards your dream!