Trying to Get Pregnant: How Long Should It Take?
In this video, OB-GYN Jennifer Wu, MD, explains how long it typically takes for couples to become pregnant and possible causes of infertility.
Infertility is defined as not being able to get pregnant after a year of trying. “Many people think that they’ll get pregnant the first time they ever have sex,” says Jennifer Wu, MD, OB-GYN at Lenox Hill Hospital. “The egg only hangs around for 24 hours, waiting for the sperm, [so] you do have to make sure you’re having sex at the right time."
Patients in their twenties and early thirties could wait a year of trying to get pregnant before checking in with the doctor. Women who are 35 or older, however, should see their doctors sooner. If there is a medical issue affecting your ability to conceive, your doctor wants to help you find it so you don’t waste too much time.
- Jennifer Wu, MDDr. Wu is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist practicing in New York City.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Infertility.
Leslie, S. W., et al. (2023). Male infertility. StatPearls.
Office on Women’s Health. (2021). Infertility.
Walker, M. H., et al. (2022). Female infertility. StatPearls.