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Published on: 7/21/2026

What is infertility and how common is it in adults?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. It affects roughly 1 in 6 adults worldwide, according to the World Health Organization, making it one of the most common reproductive health conditions.

Causes can involve either partner and range from hormonal imbalances and ovulation disorders to sperm quality issues, structural problems, or age-related factors. Because infertility often has no obvious symptoms beyond difficulty conceiving, identifying possible underlying causes early is key to exploring effective treatment options.

If you've been trying to conceive without success — or simply want clarity on symptoms you've noticed — don't guess. A free, AI-powered symptom check takes just a few minutes, is completely private, and can help you understand potential causes and the right next steps to discuss with a doctor. Getting informed early can save months of uncertainty, so take a moment now to check your symptoms and move forward with confidence.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

Infertility is when a person cannot get pregnant after trying for a year or more. It can affect both men and women. This condition is quite common around the world.

Key Points:

  • Definition: Infertility is defined as not being able to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected sex.
  • Prevalence: Infertility affects a significant number of adults globally. The exact number can vary based on different regions and factors.

Understanding infertility is important because it can help people seek the right help and support. If you or someone you know is struggling with infertility, you can check your symptoms using a free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify potential underlying health concerns before talking to a healthcare provider about guidance and options.

(References)

  • Vander Borght M, & Wyns C. (2018). Fertility and infertility: Definition and epidemiology. Clinical biochemistry, 29555319.

  • Liang Y, Huang J, Zhao Q, Mo H, Su Z, Feng S, et al. (2025). Global, regional, and national prevalence and trends of .... Human reproduction (Oxford, England), 39752330.

  • Feng J, Wu Q, Liang Y, Liang Y, & Bin Q. (2025). an analysis based on the global burden of disease study .... Reproductive health, 39972325.

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