Basic instincts Fertility in men and women is decreasing but the exact reasons are not clear. Some one in five couples will experience problems conceiving. It is difficult to be precise about this figure, as many couples are still reluctant to seek treatment. Infertility, or sub-fertility, is not life threatening. But failure to conceive can have an enormous effect on quality of life.
Some cultures attach a considerable social stigma to childlessness.
Even where this is not the case, there may be pressure from society and family. But, more importantly, there is also the lack of fulfilment and sense of failure that couples experience. The urge to reproduce is a fundamental part of our nature, and while some can successfully subvert it, for others it is the focus of their relationship and their future. Discovering that their reproductive life is not running to plan is a problem few couples are prepared for. Causes There are many causes of infertility and sub-fertility.