Sometimes, couples trying to have a baby aren’t able to. There may be a problem with:

• the sperm
• the egg
• how the egg and sperm are behaving inside the woman’s body

If the egg and sperm are not working well, it may mean:

• that one (or both) of you is infertile
• that you will need special help when you decide to get pregnant

Teenagers often don’t know if they’re infertile until they are older and are trying to have a family.

• Fertility can be affected by some STIs (such as chlamydia and gonorrhea) and by some serious diseases.
• Fertility changes with age.

Fertility and disabilities

Some disabilities affect fertility, but many do not. Even if you have no movement below the waist, you may still be fertile. For example, some males are fertile, but just need help ejaculating.

Reproductive technologies can help with that and many other challenges that people with disabilities may encounter. If you want to assess your own fertility, speak with your doctor to make an appointment at a fertility clinic.

Help

There are many different ways to get treatment if you are having fertility problems. If you have any questions or concerns, visit a local clinic to speak with a doctor or nurse.