A women under 35 years of age is considered infertile if no conception occurs after one year of unprotected intercourse. This time frame is shortened to 6 months in the female 35 years of age, or older. A male is considered infertile if he doesn't produce, and deliver, enough quality sperm to initiate a pregnancy. Twenty five percent of fertile couples will conceive during one month of unprotected intercourse. These conception rates are averages and will vary between couples.
Infertility is divided into two categories.
Primary infertility refers to women who have never had a child. Secondary infertility applies to women who have delivered at least one child. The incidence of infertility increases as the female ages. These declines reflect the natural aging process and emphasize the need for rapid evaluation and treatment, especially in woman over 35 years of age. The causes of infertility are divided into categories.