Infertility FAQs

Infertility can affect either partner or both. The most common causes include ovulation disorders, blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, endometriosis, low ovarian reserve, uterine conditions, and male factor infertility such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility. In some cases, no clear cause is found, which is known as unexplained infertility. A full fertility evaluation of both partners is essential because male factors contribute to approximately one-third of infertility cases.

Couples should seek evaluation after 12 months of trying to conceive if the woman is under 35. If the woman is 35 or older, evaluation is recommended after 6 months. You should seek care sooner if there is a history of irregular cycles, known reproductive conditions (such as endometriosis or PCOS), recurrent miscarriage, or known male factor issues such as prior testicular injury, infection, or surgery.

Yes. Many individuals over 35 conceive and have healthy pregnancies. However, fertility naturally declines with age due to reduced egg quantity and quality. At Positive Steps Fertility, we evaluate ovarian reserve and overall reproductive health to determine the most effective treatment options, which may include IUI, IVF, or advanced reproductive technologies.

No. Birth control methods including pills, IUDs, implants, and injections do not cause long-term infertility. In most cases, normal ovulation resumes within weeks to a few months after stopping contraception. If cycles remain irregular after discontinuation, it may indicate an underlying hormonal condition rather than an effect of birth control itself.

Yes. Ejaculation does not guarantee fertility. Male infertility is typically related to sperm count, motility (movement), or morphology (shape). Even with normal ejaculation, sperm may not be able to fertilize an egg naturally. A semen analysis is a key part of fertility evaluation for male partners.

Not necessarily. Irregular cycles may indicate ovulation issues, hormonal imbalance, thyroid conditions, or stress-related changes. While irregular ovulation can make conception more difficult, many patients with irregular cycles successfully conceive with treatment such as ovulation induction or IUI.

Yes. Infertility is not limited to older individuals. Young adults may experience fertility challenges due to conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), genetic factors, or male factor infertility. Fertility evaluation is appropriate at any age if conception is not occurring as expected.

No scientific evidence shows that sexual position significantly impacts conception. Pregnancy depends on sperm quality, ovulation timing, and reproductive health, not position. However, timing intercourse around ovulation is one of the most important factors for improving natural conception chances.

Not all infertility is fully reversible, but many cases are treatable or manageable. Conditions such as blocked fallopian tubes, severe male factor infertility, or diminished ovarian reserve may require assisted reproductive technologies like IUI or IVF. In some cases, donor eggs, donor sperm, or gestational carriers may be recommended to achieve pregnancy.

Overall health plays an important role in reproductive function for both men and women. Factors such as weight, nutrition, smoking, alcohol use, chronic stress, and untreated medical conditions can affect hormone balance, ovulation, and sperm quality. Improving lifestyle factors can support fertility treatment outcomes but may not resolve underlying medical causes.

Yes. IVF is not the first or only treatment for infertility. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include lifestyle modification, ovulation-inducing medications, timed intercourse, intrauterine insemination (IUI), or surgical correction of reproductive conditions. Your fertility specialist will recommend the least invasive effective option first whenever appropriate.

Stress does not typically cause infertility on its own, but chronic stress can affect hormone regulation and overall well-being. Infertility is usually due to identifiable medical or biological factors. Stress management can support overall health but should be paired with medical evaluation and treatment when conception is delayed.

Healthy lifestyle changes—such as improving diet, exercise, sleep, and avoiding smoking or excessive alcohol—can improve fertility outcomes. However, lifestyle changes alone are not enough when structural, hormonal, or genetic infertility factors are present. In these cases, medical treatment is necessary.

Infertility is more common than many people realize, affecting approximately 10–15% of couples. It is a medical condition, not a personal failure, and many patients go on to achieve pregnancy with appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

No. While sperm count is important, sperm quality, including motility and morphology, is equally critical. Even with a high sperm count, fertilization may not occur if sperm are unable to move properly or penetrate the egg. A comprehensive semen analysis evaluates all key factors.

Infertility is equally distributed among partners. Approximately one-third of cases are due to male factors, one-third due to female factors, and one-third due to a combination of both partners or unexplained causes. This is why evaluation of both partners is essential.

No. IVF is one of several advanced fertility treatments. Many patients conceive successfully using less invasive options such as medication, ovulation monitoring, or IUI. IVF is typically recommended when other treatments are unsuccessful or when specific diagnoses indicate it is the most effective option.

Pregnancy may still be possible depending on severity and whether damage to the fallopian tubes has occurred. Mild cases may not affect fertility long-term, while severe cases can cause scarring or blockage. In cases of significant tubal damage, IVF may be recommended as it bypasses the fallopian tubes entirely.

Most patients who experience one miscarriage go on to have a successful pregnancy. Recurrent miscarriage (typically defined as two or more losses) may indicate an underlying issue such as chromosomal abnormalities, uterine conditions, or hormonal imbalance. Diagnostic testing can help identify causes and guide treatment.