Six months of TTC without success - what to do now?

If you've been trying to conceive (TTC) for six months or more without success, it's understandable that you might be feeling frustrated or concerned about the length of time it is taking to fall pregnant but don’t worry, the majority of couples will conceive naturally within 1 year of trying. It is possible, but less common to conceive in the first month or even within 6 months. 

Why am I not pregnant yet?

There are many potential reasons why you may not have become pregnant after six months of trying to conceive. Some common factors that can affect fertility and can impact your chances of conception include:

Timing of Intercourse

Pregnancy is most likely to occur when intercourse takes place during the woman's fertile window, which is typically around ovulation. If the timing is off, conception may be less likely. It is recommended to have intercourse 3-4 times a week.

Age

Fertility declines with age, particularly for women over 35. As women age, the quantity and quality of their eggs decrease, which can make conception more challenging. If you’re struggling to conceive after six months and are over 35 years of age, we would recommend you seek support from a fertility specialist who can diagnose any fertility issues and provide suitable treatment options if necessary.

Health Conditions

Certain health conditions can affect fertility for both men and women. These may include polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, thyroid disorders, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), among others. We recommend that you talk to your GP if you have a family history of early menopause or endometriosis, a known history of pelvic abnormalities, sexual dysfunction, or any other medical conditions that might impact your fertility.

Lifestyle Factors

Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, being underweight, poor diet and high levels of stress can all impact fertility in both men and women.

Underlying Reproductive Issues

There may be underlying reproductive issues, such as irregular menstrual cycles, low sperm count or poor sperm motility in men, blocked fallopian tubes, or hormonal imbalances, that are hindering conception.

Unexplained Infertility

In some cases, despite thorough testing, no specific cause for infertility can be identified. This is known as unexplained infertility and accounts for a significant portion of infertility cases.

Here's what you can consider doing next

If you've been actively trying to conceive for six months without success, it's a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help identify any potential underlying issues and provide guidance on the next steps, whether that involves further testing, lifestyle adjustments, help with timing or fertility interventions. Remember, seeking support and guidance is an important step in navigating the journey toward conception.

Consult with a Healthcare Professional

It's a good idea to schedule an appointment with your GP or a fertility specialist. They can assess your situation, provide guidance, and possibly run tests to identify any underlying issues.

Dr Koita offers a 3-month fertility coaching programme which can help to re-align you to achieve a natural conception. If you are interested in the Prep4Pregnancy preconception programme, take a look at what it includes and book a Free Advisory Call to see how Dr Koita could support you on your journey. 

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Both you and your partner should focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, managing stress levels and having good sleep hygiene. These factors can all impact fertility.

Consider Fertility Treatments

Depending on your circumstances, your healthcare provider may recommend fertility treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). These treatments can help overcome certain fertility challenges.

Explore Support Groups

Dealing with fertility issues can be emotionally taxing and this in itself can be detrimental to your success. Consider joining a support group or seeking counseling to connect with others who are going through similar experiences and to access emotional support.

Remember to be patient and kind to yourself throughout this process. It's not uncommon for conception to take time, and seeking support from loved ones and healthcare professionals can help you navigate this journey.

Explore your options with Dr Koita at IVF Matters:

Schedule a FREE Advisory Call

Book a Consultation with Dr Koita