What could be some reasons for having trouble getting pregnant?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Difficulty getting pregnant, known as infertility, can result from several factors. Common causes include ovulation disorders (such as PCOS or hormonal imbalances), blocked or damaged fallopian tubes, endometriosis, uterine abnormalities, and issues with sperm quality, count, or motility. In some cases, the cause remains unexplained even after testing.

Because infertility can stem from many overlapping issues in either partner, identifying the underlying cause early is key to finding the right treatment. Rather than guessing or waiting, take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your situation and confidently plan your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover causes of trouble getting pregnant Learn if infertility needs care today Find out what's delaying your pregnancy See OTC options for fertility support Find fertility doctor for expert guidance Discover home remedies that may help Understand if infertility needs prompt evaluation

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Explanation

There are many reasons why someone might have trouble getting pregnant.

Common Causes

Ovulation Problems: Sometimes, a woman might not ovulate, which means she doesn't release an egg. This can be due to conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormonal imbalances.
Blocked Fallopian Tubes: These tubes carry eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. If they are blocked, it can prevent the sperm from reaching the egg.
Sperm Issues: Sometimes, there may be problems with the man's sperm, such as low sperm count or poor sperm movement.
Unknown Causes: In some cases, doctors can't find a specific reason for infertility, which is called unexplained infertility.

Other Factors

Age: As people get older, especially women over 35, it can be harder to get pregnant.
Lifestyle: Things like smoking, being very overweight or underweight, and excessive alcohol use can also affect fertility.

It's important for anyone having trouble getting pregnant to talk to a healthcare provider. If you're experiencing symptoms or concerns about your fertility, our free AI-powered symptom checker can help you better understand your symptoms before your appointment. They can help identify the cause and discuss possible treatments or next steps.

(References)

Carson SA, & Kallen AN. (2021). Diagnosis and Management of Infertility: A Review. JAMA, 34228062.
(2019). Infertility Workup for the Women's Health Specialist. Obstetrics and gynecology, 31135764.
Vander Borght M, & Wyns C. (2018). Fertility and infertility: Definition and epidemiology. Clinical biochemistry, 29555319.

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