If you’re under 35 and haven’t conceived after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse — or 6 months if you’re over 35 — it’s time to consider a fertility evaluation. These timeframes may shorten if there are known issues such as irregular cycles or male factor infertility.
Many people have misconceptions about how long it should take to get pregnant. Even in healthy couples, conception doesn’t always happen quickly. Studies show that the chance of pregnancy per menstrual cycle peaks at about 26–38% in the early thirties — and gradually decreases with each passing cycle if conception doesn’t occur.
In the Zinaman study, which followed 200 women aged 37 or younger, 82% conceived within 12 months, though success rates fell to the teens by 3–6 months and to single digits beyond that. Similarly, the Gnoth study found that 98% of couples who eventually conceived naturally did so within the first year — meaning if conception hasn’t occurred after 6–12 months, medical support may be needed.
Properly timing intercourse makes a real difference. In the Gnoth and Zinaman studies, couples who carefully tracked ovulation achieved conception rates of 30–38% in the first month — much higher than average. But remember, these figures reflect conception, not live birth. Miscarriages, especially with advancing age, can significantly affect outcomes.
Fertility naturally declines with age. According to Steiner’s research, after 12 cycles:
88% of women aged 30–33 conceived
54% of women aged 40–41 conceived
Miscarriage risk also increases as egg quality declines. Data from Norway show that miscarriage rates rise from under 10% for women aged 25–29 to over 50% for those 45 and older. This pattern reflects the rise in chromosomal abnormalities in aging eggs.
Timing is everything. Pregnancy is only possible during the fertile window — the few days leading up to and including ovulation. However, studies show that only 18% of women correctly identify their fertile window, even when trying to track ovulation.
Ovulation usually occurs about 14 days before the next period, but this can vary.
Luteinizing hormone (LH) surges 36–40 hours before ovulation — this is the signal to start trying.
Because an egg lives less than a day, sperm should already be present before ovulation.
The New England Journal of Medicine study found that the chance of conception was:
~10% when sex occurred 5 days before ovulation
~36% when it happened on the day of ovulation
So, the most fertile period is 1–2 days before ovulation — not after it.
To maximize your chances, track your cycle with reliable tools:
Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs): Detect LH surges and signal when to have sex.
Dual-hormone kits: Measure both estrogen and LH for a broader fertile window.
Fertility apps and wearables: Helpful for cycle awareness but less precise than OPKs.
Ultrasounds or blood tests: The most accurate methods, available through fertility clinics.
Women with PCOS or diminished ovarian reserve may get inaccurate OPK results due to hormonal fluctuations. In these cases, medical monitoring is best.
Timing and frequency are key when trying to conceive. Ideally, couples should have sex once a day or every other day during the fertile window — the few days leading up to and including ovulation. Studies show that this schedule maximizes the chances of pregnancy without negatively affecting sperm quality in men with normal counts. Trying too infrequently or “saving up” can risk missing the fertile window altogether, so consistency matters more than perfect timing.
Most women can expect their fertility to return quickly after stopping hormonal birth control. For those on the pill, cycles typically resume within 1–3 months, while fertility may take longer after long-acting methods like Depo-Provera. Initial irregularity in periods is common, but studies show no long-term reduction in the ability to conceive. Tracking your cycle carefully and timing intercourse during the fertile window can help you conceive efficiently after discontinuing contraception.
Several small changes can increase the likelihood of conception:
Track ovulation with OPKs or reliable hormone-monitoring methods.
Use sperm-friendly lubricants such as Pre-Seed; avoid those containing spermicides.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: balanced diet, regular exercise, limited alcohol, and no smoking.
Ensure sexual activity occurs during the fertile window, ideally daily or every other day.
Seek guidance from a fertility specialist if conception does not occur within the expected timeframe.
Track ovulation with OPKs or reliable hormone-monitoring tools.
Have intercourse daily or every other day during the 2–3 days before ovulation.
Choose lubricants that support sperm health.
Expect temporary cycle irregularities after birth control.
Seek a fertility specialist if conception hasn’t occurred after 6–12 months.
Expand your knowledge with additional lessons and resources:
Fertility 101: Understanding natural conception and common fertility challenges.
Lifestyle & Fertility: How diet, supplements, and habits impact reproductive health.
Diagnosing Fertility Issues: When and how to seek medical support.
Our job is to listen, to connect the dots between your needs, and to determine how we can best help you have your baby. If you’re asking how much does it cost for a surrogate, we’ll walk you through every step of the process to ensure there are no surprises.
To make an appointment with one of our counselors or physicians, please call (212) 661-7673 or email info@surrogacy4all.com. We look forward to hearing from you.
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