How long does it usually take to get pregnant?

It's impossible to say how long it takes to get pregnant because it's different for each woman.

Many factors can affect a couple's chances of conceiving, such as:

• your age
• your general health
• your reproductive health
• how often you have sex

Some women become pregnant quickly, while others take longer. This may be upsetting, but it's normal.

Fertility

• Most couples will get pregnant within a year if they have regular sex and don't use contraception.
• But women become less fertile as they get older.
• The effect of age on men's fertility is less clear.

What does 'regular sex' mean?

• Having regular sex means having sex every 2 to 3 days throughout the month.
• Some couples may try to time having sex with when the woman ovulates (releases an egg).
• But do not worry about the timing of when you have sex if it makes you feel stressed.

Fertility problems

Some of these factors affect either women or men.

• Hormonal (endocrine) disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and problems with the thyroid or pituitary glands
• Pysical disorders, such as obesity, anorexia nervosa or excessive exercise
• Disorders of the reproductive system, such as infections, blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis or a low sperm count
• Menopause

The most common causes are ovulation failure (which can be caused by lots of different things) and sperm disorders.

Getting help

If you have been trying for a baby for 1 year without success, see your doctor for advice.