Because of a lapse in government funding, the information on this website may not be up to date, transactions submitted via the website may not be processed, and the agency may not be able to respond to inquiries until appropriations are enacted.

The NIH Clinical Center (the research hospital of NIH) is open. For more details about its operating status, please visit cc.nih.gov.

Updates regarding government operating status and resumption of normal operations can be found at OPM.gov.

When should I consult a health care provider?

Couples should consult with a health care provider about fertility problems if they have had unprotected sex for 1 year without a successful pregnancy.

Exceptions to this recommendation apply to:

  • Women older than age 35 who have had 6 months of unprotected sex without a successful pregnancy
  • Women who suspect they may have underlying problems that will affect fertility, such as irregular periods
  • Individuals who have been diagnosed with specific conditions that are known to reduce fertility
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