We consider a couple to have infertility, if they have not conceived despite regular intercourse without using any birth control for at least a year. 15 to 20% couples will not conceive despite a year of trying. However this does not mean they will not conceive later on, hence they need to be investigated and treated accordingly. 

Is infertility a male or  female problem? 

Causes for infertility stem from both partners. 47% stem from female factor, 40% stem from male factor. 10% of cases are due to common factors. 10% of cases are unexplained. As either or both may be invloved, it is important to investigate both the partners and most treatments require the active participation of both.