Some people take their fertility for granted, but getting pregnant isn’t as easy as you might expect. For a couple between the ages of 29 and 33 with no fertility problems, there is a 20 percent to 25 percent chance of pregnancy in a given month, according to the National Women’s Health Resource Center. Conception is largely a matter of good timing. After an egg is released from the ovaries, it can survive for up to 24 hours. If it doesn’t become fertilized during that time, the couple must wait a month for another egg to be released.

When to See a Doctor
Lisa French, a nurse in a neonatal ICU in Arizona, didn’t realize that she had a fertility problem until she had a miscarriage after years of trying to get pregnant. Her medical background convinced her to see a doctor after a few years of unsuccessful attempts.

Fertility problems only become apparent after a couple attempts to conceive for several months to a year. According to Dr. David Sable, the director of the division of reproductive endocrinology at Saint Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, New Jersey, the first factor to consider is the age of the woman. If she is over age 35, she should see a doctor about infertility after six months of unprotected intercourse. A woman under age 35 with no known fertility problems should see a doctor after trying to get pregnant for at least six months to a year.

Most obstetricians/gynecologists (Ob/Gyn) have basic training in infertility treatment, so women should see their Ob/Gyn first to determine if she can help, according to Dr. Sable. But, if the couple is already aware of a problem, such as a gonorrhea or chlamydia infection -- which may have caused internal scarring, pelvic inflammatory disease, a ruptured appendix at an early age or irregular periods, they should opt to see a specialist before six months have passed. Couples should also seek expert advice if they suspect problems with the male partner.