What is Infertility?

About 12% of Americans struggle with infertility. The main symptom of infertility is not getting pregnant and it is both physically and emotionally painful.

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the definition of infertility has been broadened. 

Infertility is characterized by the "inability to achieve a successful pregnancy based on a patient's medical, sexual, and reproductive history, age, physical findings, diagnostic testing, or any combination of these factors."

It also includes cases where "medical intervention is required to achieve a successful pregnancy." This can include the use of donor gametes or embryos, for individuals or partners.

The new definition emphasizes that no one should be denied or delayed treatment based on their relationship status or sexual orientation. It recognizes the diverse contexts and needs of patients seeking reproductive care.

For patients engaging in regular, unprotected intercourse without known reproductive issues, evaluation should begin at 12 months if the female partner is under 35 years old, and at 6 months if the female partner is 35 years or older.

Source: https://www.asrm.org/practice-guidance/practice-committee-documents/denitions-of-infertility/