How long does it take to get pregnant? It can take some time for pregnancy to happen even if both partners have normal fertility.
Here is what is considered a normal timeframe for trying to conceive and when it may be appropriate to seek medical advice.
How Long Does It Take to Get Pregnant?
According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the recommended time to seek evaluation depends on the woman’s age: (1)
- Under age 35: See a doctor if pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse.
- Ages 35 to 40: Seek medical advice if pregnancy has not occurred after 6 months of regular attempts, as female fertility declines more rapidly with age and timing becomes increasingly important.
- Over 40: It is generally recommended to seek medical evaluation right away for women over 40 rather than waiting 6 or 12 months.
When to Seek Fertility Evaluation Without Waiting
It is not always necessary to wait 6 months or a full year before seeing a doctor. Earlier evaluation is recommended if either partner has factors that may reduce the chances of pregnancy or suggest a fertility problem, such as: (1)
- Menstrual cycle problems: such as irregular periods, cycles shorter than 25 days, bleeding between periods, infrequent periods, or absent periods. These may indicate problems with ovulation.
- Endometriosis.
- A history of pelvic adhesions or infections, ectopic pregnancy, or previous problems or surgery involving the fallopian tubes.
- An abnormal semen analysis or problems with erection or ejaculation.
- Two or more miscarriages: this warrants medical evaluation to investigate possible causes and plan appropriately for a future pregnancy.
In these situations, the question is not simply how long does it take to get pregnant, as delaying evaluation may reduce the available treatment options.
What Does Regularly Trying to Conceive Mean?
Regular attempts to conceive generally mean having sex without contraception every 2 to 3 days throughout the month. This increases the likelihood that viable sperm will be present when ovulation occurs. (2)
Couples may also have sex more frequently during the fertile window, which includes the days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation itself.(2)
During this time, the chances of conception are highest when intercourse occurs every 1 to 2 days. There is no need to pinpoint the exact day of ovulation or have sex every day for attempts to be considered regular. For most couples trying to conceive, intercourse every 2 to 3 days throughout the month is an appropriate approach.(2)
Note: A common misconception is that frequent intercourse and ejaculation reduce semen quality. The evidence does not support this. In fact, the chances of pregnancy are higher with regular intercourse every 2 to 3 days. (2)
What Is the Normal Chance of Getting Pregnant Each Month?
It is normal for pregnancy not to happen in the first month of trying. Studies suggest that among healthy couples with no known fertility problems, the chance of pregnancy is around 20-25% per month for women in their 20s and early 30s. This monthly chance then gradually declines with age, falling to less than 5-10% by age 40. (3)(4)
Overall, about 80% of healthy couples conceive naturally within the first year of trying if they have regular intercourse, at least twice a week. By the end of the second year, this rises to around 90% (for healthy couples where the woman is under 40). (2)
Lifestyle Factors That May Affect Pregnancy
Before assuming there is an underlying fertility problem, it is worth considering certain lifestyle factors that may affect how quickly pregnancy occurs in either partner: (3)
- Being underweight or overweight: Being significantly overweight or underweight can affect hormone balance, ovulation, and sperm quality.
- Smoking and alcohol: Smoking can negatively affect egg and sperm quality and may increase the time it takes to conceive.
- Certain types of lubricants: Some commonly used personal lubricants may interfere with sperm movement. Couples trying to conceive may prefer lubricants labeled as fertility-friendly.
- Stress: High levels of stress may affect hormone balance and sexual desire.
- An unhealthy lifestyle: Poor diet, lack of physical activity, and insufficient sleep may also affect reproductive health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Certain Sex Positions Better for Getting Pregnant?
There is no scientific evidence that any particular sex position increases the chances of pregnancy compared with others. What matters most is regular intercourse, it is more important than sexual position. it is worth noting that some experts suggest that positions allowing deeper penetration may deposit semen closer to the cervix, which could theoretically help sperm begin their journey. However, this has not been proven. (5)
Should You Lie on Your Back After Sex to Improve the Chances of Pregnancy?
Lying on your back and avoiding getting up for around 10-15 minutes may help improve the chances of conception. However, sperm can begin reaching the cervix within just a few seconds after ejaculation. (5)
Should You Start Taking Vitamins Before Pregnancy?
Yes. It is recommended to start taking 400 micrograms of folic acid daily at least 2-3 months before pregnancy to help prevent neural tube defects in the developing baby. (6)
