If you have been trying for a baby without success, it is completely natural to feel frustrated, worried, or even overwhelmed. Many couples expect pregnancy to happen quickly, so when it takes longer than anticipated, questions and concerns often begin to arise.
The good news is that fertility challenges are more common than many people realise, and there are often steps that can be taken to understand what may be affecting your chances of conceiving.
One of the first investigations recommended for women experiencing difficulties conceiving is a fertility scan. This simple assessment can provide valuable information about your reproductive health and help identify potential issues that may be affecting fertility.
How Long Should It Normally Take to Get Pregnant?
Pregnancy does not always happen immediately, even for healthy couples.
Most couples who are actively trying to conceive will become pregnant within one year of regular unprotected intercourse.
In general:
- Around 80% of couples conceive within 12 months
- Many pregnancies occur within the first six months
- Fertility can vary significantly from person to person
It is important to remember that taking several months to conceive is often completely normal.
When Does Difficulty Conceiving Become a Concern?
While it is normal for pregnancy to take time, there are situations where further investigation may be beneficial.
You should consider seeking advice if:
- You are under 35 and have been trying for 12 months without success
- You are over 35 and have been trying for six months without success
- You have irregular periods
- You have known gynaecological conditions
- You have experienced previous fertility problems
Early assessment can help identify any underlying issues and avoid unnecessary delays.
Common Reasons Pregnancy May Be Taking Longer
There are many possible reasons why conception may not happen as quickly as expected.
Common factors include:
Irregular Ovulation
If ovulation does not occur regularly, it can make it more difficult to become pregnant.
Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can affect ovulation patterns.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones play a key role in fertility. Problems affecting hormone levels may impact ovulation and reproductive health.
Structural Issues
Certain conditions affecting the uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries may reduce fertility.
Lifestyle Factors
Factors that may affect fertility include:
- Smoking
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Being significantly underweight
- High stress levels
Male Fertility Factors
Difficulty conceiving is not always related to female fertility. Male fertility issues contribute to a significant proportion of fertility challenges.
Can Age Affect Fertility?
Yes.
Age is one of the most important factors affecting fertility.
Female fertility gradually declines with age, particularly after the age of 35. This is largely due to a reduction in both the number and quality of eggs.
Although many women conceive naturally in their late thirties and forties, it can sometimes take longer to become pregnant.
This is why fertility investigations are often recommended sooner for women over 35 who are experiencing difficulties conceiving.
What Is a Fertility Scan?
A fertility scan is an ultrasound examination used to assess aspects of a woman’s reproductive health.
The scan helps healthcare professionals evaluate structures involved in fertility, including the ovaries and uterus.
A fertility scan is often one of the first steps in investigating fertility concerns because it is non-invasive, straightforward, and provides valuable information.
What Can a Fertility Scan Check?
A fertility scan can provide important insights into reproductive health.
Depending on your circumstances, the scan may assess:
- The ovaries
- The uterus (womb)
- The thickness of the uterine lining
- Ovarian follicles
- Structural abnormalities that may affect fertility
The information gathered during the scan helps healthcare professionals determine whether additional investigations or treatments may be beneficial.
Can a Fertility Scan Detect Problems With the Ovaries or Uterus?
Yes.
A fertility scan can help identify a range of conditions that may affect fertility.
These may include:
Ovarian Conditions
- Polycystic ovaries
- Ovarian cysts
- Reduced ovarian reserve indicators
Uterine Conditions
- Fibroids
- Polyps
- Structural abnormalities
- Changes affecting the uterine lining
While a fertility scan cannot diagnose every fertility issue, it often provides valuable clues that help guide further assessment.
When Should You Consider Fertility Testing?
You may wish to consider fertility testing if:
- You have been trying to conceive without success
- Your menstrual cycles are irregular
- You have known reproductive health conditions
- You have experienced recurrent miscarriage
- You are concerned about age-related fertility changes
Many people find that having answers helps reduce uncertainty and allows them to make informed decisions about their next steps.
What Happens During a Fertility Scan Appointment?
A fertility scan appointment is usually quick and straightforward.
During the appointment:
- Your medical history and fertility concerns will be discussed.
- An ultrasound scan will be performed.
- The ovaries and uterus will be assessed.
- Relevant measurements and observations will be recorded.
- Findings will be explained by the clinician.
In many cases, a transvaginal ultrasound scan may be recommended because it provides detailed images of the reproductive organs.
If you would like to learn more about available private ultrasound scan services.
What Happens After a Fertility Assessment?
Your clinician may also recommend further blood tests to check hormone levels, thyroid function, or other health factors that can affect fertility.
The next steps depend on the findings of your assessment.
In some cases, results may be reassuring and no significant concerns are identified.
If further investigation is needed, your healthcare provider may recommend:
- Hormone testing
- Ovulation monitoring
- Additional scans
- Fertility specialist referral
- Lifestyle changes to support fertility
A fertility assessment helps create a clearer picture of your reproductive health and allows appropriate treatment plans to be considered.
When Should You Seek Professional Fertility Advice?
It is worth speaking to a healthcare professional if:
- You have been trying to conceive without success
- You have irregular or absent periods
- You have concerns about your fertility
- You have a history of reproductive health conditions
- You would like guidance before starting fertility treatment
Seeking advice early does not mean there is a serious problem. In many cases, early assessment simply provides reassurance and helps identify the most appropriate next steps.
Medical Room provides comprehensive fertility and women’s health support through its Gynaecology Services
Final Thoughts
If you have been trying for a baby without success, you are not alone. Fertility challenges affect many individuals and couples, and there are often effective ways to investigate and address potential causes.
A fertility scan can provide valuable information about your reproductive health, helping identify factors that may be affecting your chances of conception.
Understanding what is happening is often the first step towards finding the right support and moving forward with confidence.