Signs You Can't Get Pregnant: Understanding Infertility Symptoms

Infertility is a deeply personal and often challenging experience. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success, you might be wondering whether there are signs indicating an underlying issue. While some women experience obvious symptoms, others may not realize they have fertility-related problems until they start trying to have a baby.

Below, we explore the common signs of fertility problems, when to seek medical advice, and how male fertility factors can also play a role (because infertility isn’t just a woman’s issue). If you recognize any of these symptoms, speaking with a healthcare provider can help you navigate your options and determine the next steps. 

What is infertility?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected sex (or six months if a woman is over 35). It can result from various medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle factors affecting reproductive health. While some individuals may show clear signs of infertility, others may not notice any symptoms until they begin trying to conceive.

Infertility affects both men and women, with female infertility accounting for about one-third of cases, male infertility contributing to 40-50% of cases, and a combination of both or unknown factors making up the rest. Fortunately, medical advancements have provided many diagnostic tools and treatment options that can help individuals and couples overcome fertility challenges.

It's important to understand that infertility doesn’t necessarily mean you’re completely unable to have a child. This diagnosis isn't a definitive end, but rather a starting point for seeking help and support. Many couples who reach out for assistance find hope and possibilities — about half of them are able to conceive, whether on their own or with medical intervention. 

8 signs you can't get pregnant

Infertility can be a long and emotionally taxing journey, but recognizing potential signs early can help you seek the right medical support.

1. Irregular periods

A regular menstrual cycle is an important indicator of your reproductive health. On average, a typical cycle lasts between 21 to 35 days, with ovulation usually happening around the middle. If your cycle feels a bit all over the place or changes a lot from month to month, it might be a sign that something is affecting your ovulation.

There are a few reasons why cycles can become irregular. For example, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that can affect ovulation and make periods unpredictable. Thyroid issues, whether it's hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, can also play a role by throwing off your hormone balance. Plus, stress can really take a toll on our bodies, and chronic stress can make it tough for our bodies to keep ovulation on track. As we age, having a lower ovarian reserve can also lead to cycles that are less regular or even skipped.

If you notice that your cycles are often irregular, it might be a good idea to chat with a healthcare professional. They can help figure out if there's anything going on with your ovulation that might be affecting your fertility.

2. No periods at all

If you haven't had your period in a while and aren’t pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking birth control pills continuously, it might be worth looking into, as it could signal something affecting your fertility.

The absence of menstruation is known as amenorrhea. There are two main types of amenorrhea to be aware of:

• Primary amenorrhea happens when someone hasn’t had their first period by age 16.
• Secondary amenorrhea refers to the cessation of menstrual cycles for three months or longer in someone who used to have regular periods.

A variety of factors can contribute to missed periods. Hormonal imbalances, often linked to conditions like PCOS or thyroid issues, can definitely play a role. Another possible cause is premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), sometimes referred to as premature ovarian failure, which is when the ovaries stop functioning normally before age 40. If you’re very active or have low body weight — common in athletes or those with eating disorders — that can also disrupt your hormone levels and lead to missed periods. Additionally, chronic health issues like diabetes, celiac disease, or autoimmune disorders may affect your menstrual cycle as well.

If you've noticed that your periods have been irregular or absent without a clear reason, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for some guidance. 

3. Heavy or painful periods

Periods can come with some discomfort, and that’s completely normal. However, if you’re dealing with really painful periods or heavy bleeding, it might be worth checking in with a healthcare provider. Signs like intense cramps (that stop you from living your day-to-day life), heavy or prolonged bleeding, or blood clots bigger than a quarter can be signs of something that might affect fertility.

One condition that could cause these symptoms is endometriosis. This happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, potentially leading to inflammation and even fertility challenges. Another common issue is uterine fibroids. These are noncancerous growths that can mess with implantation and cause heavy bleeding during your period. Plus, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can stem from untreated sexually transmitted infections (STIs), may also lead to painful periods due to scarring in the reproductive organs.

If your periods are particularly painful or you notice significant blood loss, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can help figure out what’s going on and guide you towards the right solutions.

4. Difficulty tracking ovulation

Many women have their own ways of predicting ovulation, whether it's through noticing changes in cervical mucus, tracking their basal body temperature, or using ovulation predictor kits. If you find it tricky to figure out when you're ovulating, it might be a sign of anovulation, which means you're not ovulating regularly. This can make it a bit tougher if you're trying to conceive since ovulation is key for pregnancy.

If you're experiencing a lack of ovulation, you might also notice other signs, like irregular or missed periods. Some women find that their cervical mucus doesn't change much throughout their cycle, staying thick or dry instead of becoming clear and stretchy when ovulation is approaching. If you're concerned about not ovulating, it’s a good idea to chat with a doctor. They may suggest ovulation-inducing medications or some lifestyle tweaks to help get your cycles back on track.

5. Age-related fertility decline

As we get older, our fertility naturally starts to change. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that a woman’s fertility begins to decline around the age of 32, and it tends to drop more quickly after 37. By the time women are in their mid-forties, it can become quite a challenge to conceive naturally, mainly due to a decrease in both the number and quality of eggs.

With age, women's ovarian reserve, which refers to the number of available eggs, gradually decreases. Furthermore, older eggs may have a higher chance of chromosomal issues, which could lead to miscarriages or genetic concerns. There can also be changes in the uterus that make it a bit less welcoming for implantation. If you're over 35 and have been trying to conceive for six months without success, it might be a good idea to reach out for a fertility evaluation. 

6. History of pelvic inflammatory disease

PID is an infection that affects the female reproductive organs, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It’s often caused by STIs like chlamydia or gonorrhea, or other bacterial infections.

If PID isn’t treated, it can cause inflammation and scar tissue in the reproductive system, which might result in fertility challenges. Some common signs to watch for include:

• Pelvic pain
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pain during intercourse
• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Fever.

Keep in mind that some women may not notice any symptoms until complications occur.

The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics can help avoid long-term issues. If you've had PID before, it’s a smart idea to talk with a fertility specialist. They can guide you on whether any scarring may be affecting your reproductive health and discuss the best steps for your future. 

7. Symptoms of PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the leading causes of infertility in women. It is characterized by hormonal imbalances that prevent normal ovulation. Many women with PCOS experience: 

• Irregular or absent periods
• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Acne
• Difficulty managing their weight. 

Because PCOS affects ovulation, women with this condition may require fertility treatments such as ovulation-inducing medications to conceive.

8. Previous ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, typically in the fallopian tubes. This can cause significant damage to the reproductive system and affect future fertility. Women who have experienced an ectopic pregnancy may notice severe abdominal pain, shoulder pain, dizziness, or fainting. It is important to discuss future pregnancy risks with a healthcare provider if you have a history of ectopic pregnancies.

What about male infertility

Infertility is not solely a female issue. About 40-50% of infertility cases involve a male factor. Some common signs of male infertility include: 

• Low sperm count
• Poor sperm motility
• Erectile dysfunction
• Testicular pain or swelling. 

Hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone levels, can also contribute to fertility issues. A semen analysis can help assess male fertility, and lifestyle changes or medical interventions may improve sperm quality.

If you experience any of these symptoms, consider speaking with a healthcare professional to explore diagnostic testing and possible treatments. Understanding your reproductive health is the first step toward making informed decisions about your fertility and future family planning.

When to seek medical advice

If you've been trying to conceive for a year without success — or for six months if you’re over the age of 35 — it may be time to consider seeing a fertility specialist. If you're experiencing irregular or absent periods, severe period pain, or signs that may indicate ovulation problems, don’t hesitate to seek an evaluation. 

If you have a history of conditions such as PCOS, endometriosis, PID, or have experienced recurrent miscarriages, reaching out for medical advice sooner can be really helpful. Similarly, if you've undergone past treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, or if you’ve had reproductive surgery, consulting a specialist early on can offer you valuable insights and potential treatment options.

And if you or your partner know of any issues that might be affecting fertility, like low sperm count or hormonal imbalances, it’s important to seek guidance. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and there are professionals ready to help you explore the possibilities that can lead to the family you dream of.

FAQ

How do you know if you can't get pregnant?

Knowing if you can’t get pregnant often involves recognizing signs of infertility, but the only definitive way to determine fertility status is through medical evaluation. If you’ve been trying to conceive for a year (or six months if you’re over 35) and haven’t had any luck, it might be worth looking into. Irregular or missed periods can sometimes suggest that ovulation isn’t working as it should, and if your periods are extremely painful or heavy, it could be a sign of conditions like endometriosis or fibroids. Other factors, like a history of pelvic infections or untreated sexually transmitted infections, as well as previous surgeries impacting your reproductive system, could also play a role in difficulties with conception. It’s also worth noting that as you age, particularly after 35, your fertility can naturally decline. If you relate to any of these situations, reaching out to a specialist can be a great step. They can perform tests like hormone checks and imaging studies to help evaluate your ovulation, egg supply, and overall reproductive health.

How do I know if I'm still fertile?

If you're wondering about your fertility, there are some key signs to consider, but getting medical testing is the best way to know for sure. Regular menstrual cycles, usually between 21 and 35 days, indicate that ovulation is happening, which is super important for fertility. You might also notice changes in your cervical mucus — a clear and stretchy consistency around the middle of your cycle is a good sign that ovulation is on the way. If you’re under 35 and trying to conceive, aiming for pregnancy within a year is a good benchmark. If you’re over 35, that timeframe shortens to six months. It’s natural for age to affect the quantity and quality of your eggs, which can make getting pregnant more challenging. If you have any concerns, fertility tests like hormone evaluations, ovulation tracking, and ovarian reserve testing can give you a clearer picture of your reproductive health. Don't hesitate to chat with your doctor; they can help you decide if more assessment or assistance is right for you.

What are the main reasons for not being able to get pregnant?

There are a variety of reasons why some women have trouble conceiving, and these can come from different areas of health and lifestyle. One common reason is irregular ovulation, which can make it tricky to know when you're most fertile. Conditions like PCOS can play a role in this. Sometimes, issues with the fallopian tubes, like blockages or damage, can keep sperm from meeting the egg. Endometriosis is another condition that can affect fertility by causing scarring in the reproductive organs. Age can also be a factor, as fertility tends to decline as we get older, particularly after 35. On the lifestyle front, being overweight or underweight, smoking, drinking too much alcohol, or experiencing high levels of stress can impact your chances of conceiving. Let’s not forget about male fertility, too. Issues such as low sperm count or poor sperm quality can also make a difference. In some cases, there might not be a clear reason for infertility, and it’s classified as unexplained infertility. Understanding what might be causing the challenges can often help in finding the right treatment.