Many people conceive within a year of trying, and taking longer is common. Doctors usually suggest an evaluation after 12 months of trying, or after about 6 months from the mid-30s. From 40, or if there is a known reason to look, it makes sense to ask without waiting.
How long does it usually take?
Conceiving often takes longer than people expect. The World Health Organization defines infertility as not becoming pregnant after 12 months or more of regular sex without contraception. Many couples who are trying will conceive within that year, and taking several months is completely normal.
"Regular sex" here means every two to three days through the cycle. Timing sex only around the expected fertile days is not necessary, and it can add pressure.
Good to know. Taking longer than you hoped does not, on its own, mean anything is wrong. The timings below are about when it is reasonable to ask, not about deadlines.
When doctors usually suggest an evaluation
Guidelines broadly agree on these timings for the person who would carry a pregnancy:
| Age | Usually suggested |
|---|---|
| Under 35 | After 12 months of trying |
| 35 to 39 | After 6 months of trying |
| 40 and over | Without waiting, or soon after starting to try |
The wait is shorter with age because it is useful to look sooner, not because time has run out. Our guide to age and fertility explains what changes, and when.
Why you may see 35 in one place and 36 in another
Guidelines differ slightly on the exact age. Many fertility societies, such as the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, draw the line at around 35. The UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) uses 36 in its 2026 guideline: from that age, it suggests an earlier assessment instead of waiting the full year.
The difference is small, and you don't need to worry about which one is "right". Both say the same thing: from the mid-30s, it is reasonable to look sooner.
What happens after an evaluation
An evaluation is not the same as starting treatment. Often it simply gives you information and a plan. Our guide to first fertility tests explains what is usually checked.
NICE's 2026 guideline describes one approach. When there is no known reason for concern, both partners are assessed after a year of trying. If the tests don't find a cause, it advises continuing to try for a total of two years before treatment such as IUI with ovarian stimulation, or IVF. It also advises against using ovulation medicines on their own as a treatment when no cause has been found.
That is UK guidance, and practice in India varies. Your doctor may suggest a different plan based on your age, your test results and what matters to you. It is always fine to ask why a plan is suggested.
Reasons to ask sooner, at any age
It is sensible to see a doctor without waiting the usual months if any of these apply:
- periods are very irregular, or have stopped
- known endometriosis, or very painful periods
- a condition that can affect fertility, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or a thyroid problem
- previous pelvic infection, or surgery on the tubes, ovaries or uterus
- two or more pregnancy losses
- sex is painful or difficult, or there are problems with erection or ejaculation
- a known concern for the male partner, such as previous surgery on the testes, mumps after puberty, or a past semen analysis that was unusual
- previous treatment for cancer, for either partner
If either of you is about to start treatment for cancer, ask about fertility preservation before treatment begins.
It involves both partners
A first evaluation usually looks at both partners from the start. For the male partner, a semen analysis is often the simplest first test.
In many families, the focus falls only on the woman, and male partners can be reluctant to test. Causes can lie with either partner, or both. Testing both of you early can save months of tests and worry for one person alone.
Single people and same-sex couples
NICE's 2026 guideline applies regardless of sexual orientation, partnership status or gender identity. It includes people who have not conceived after 6 cycles of artificial insemination, such as with donor sperm, alongside those who have tried for a year.
You also don't need to wait to ask about your own fertility. If you are thinking about the future, or about egg freezing, a doctor can talk you through the options that apply to you.
Who to see first
A gynaecologist is often the first doctor people see. Depending on your situation, you may later see a fertility specialist, and a male partner may see a urologist or andrologist. Our specialist checker can help you think about where to start.
What you can do while you wait
- Take folic acid (400 micrograms a day) if you might become pregnant.
- Stop smoking, and keep alcohol low. This applies to both partners.
- Aim for a healthy weight; both very low and high body weight can affect ovulation.
- Write down the first day of each period. It is useful information for any doctor.
- Keep any previous reports, for both partners, in one place. Our guide to preparing for your first appointment lists what to bring.
When to see a doctor
- You are under 35 and have been trying for 12 months.
- You are in your mid-30s and have been trying for 6 months.
- You are 40 or over and want to try, or have just started.
- Any of the reasons to ask sooner above apply to you.
If you recognise yourself here, it is reasonable to book an evaluation now. Severe pain, heavy bleeding or fainting needs urgent care, as does one-sided pain in the lower tummy when a period is late (which can be a sign of a pregnancy outside the uterus): call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.
Sources
This is general information, not medical advice. It can't account for your history. Please talk to a doctor about your own situation. Medical disclaimer
Severe pain, heavy bleeding or fainting? Call 112 or go to the nearest hospital.