Trying to conceive (TTC) is an exciting and emotional journey, but it can also be full of questions, especially if it’s taking longer than you expected. You’re not alone in wondering how long should it take or if something is wrong?
The truth is, everyone’s fertility journey is unique. For most healthy people, getting pregnant can take a few months, even when everything is working just as it should. In this guide, we’ll break down what’s considered “normal,” what factors affect your chances, and when it might be time to speak to a GP.
What’s the Average Time It Takes to Get Pregnant?
According to the NHS, most couples or individuals who are trying to conceive will get pregnant within one year, if they have regular unprotected sex (every 2 to 3 days) and no known fertility issues.
- Around 84% of people conceive within 12 months
- 92% will conceive within 2 years
That said, pregnancy doesn’t always happen immediately, even for people in good health. If it takes a few months, that’s completely normal.
For more, visit the NHS guidance on trying for a baby.
How Often Should You Be Having Sex?
You don’t need to track ovulation precisely to get pregnant, although it can help. The NHS recommends having unprotected sex every 2 to 3 days throughout the cycle, rather than only around ovulation. This ensures sperm are present in the reproductive tract when the egg is released.
But if you prefer a more targeted approach, learn to identify your fertile window (the 5 days leading up to ovulation and the day of ovulation).
What Factors Affect How Long It Takes?
1. Age
- Fertility naturally declines with age.
- Fertility starts to decline after age 30
- The decline becomes more significant after 35
- By 40, the chance of conceiving each month is around 5%
Men also experience a gradual decline in fertility, usually from their 40s onward.
2. Ovulation
You need to be ovulating regularly to get pregnant. If your periods are irregular, very long, or absent, ovulation may not be happening monthly.
Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can affect ovulation. If you’re unsure, tracking your cycle or using ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) can help.
3. Sperm Health
Sperm quality, including count, motility (movement), and shape can significantly influence how long it takes to conceive. Heat, smoking, alcohol, stress, and certain medications can all impact sperm health.
4. Lifestyle and Health Factors
General wellbeing plays a big part. Things that may affect how quickly you conceive include:
- Smoking or vaping
- High alcohol intake
- Stress
- Being over- or underweight
- Low nutrient intake (especially folate, iron, and vitamin D)
- High caffeine intake (limit to 200mg per day)
- Certain medical conditions or medications
What’s Normal vs When to See a GP
Trying for a few months without success can feel disheartening but in most cases, it’s not a sign that something is wrong. Fertility is a game of timing and biology, not just effort or desire.
Speak to your GP if:
- You’re under 35 and have been trying for 12 months
- You’re over 35 and have been trying for 6 months
- Your periods are very irregular, absent, or extremely painful
- You or your partner have known reproductive health issues
- You’ve experienced repeated early pregnancy losses
The earlier you reach out for support, the better. Fertility assessments are available on the NHS and include hormone testing, semen analysis, and ultrasounds.
How to Maximise Your Chances Naturally
1. Track Your Cycle
Understand your fertile window and time sex or insemination accordingly.
2. Take a Preconception Supplement
- The NHS recommends:
- 400 micrograms of folic acid daily (from at least 3 months before pregnancy)
- 10 micrograms of vitamin D daily
More on this at the NHS pregnancy vitamin page.
3. Reduce Stress and Get Rest
- Stress can interfere with hormone regulation and ovulation. Try:
- Yoga or gentle exercise
- Journaling
- Therapy or counselling
- Meditation or breathing techniques
- Alternative therapies like acupuncture and reflexology
4. Eat a Fertility-Friendly Diet
Focus on whole foods, complex carbs, healthy fats, leafy greens, nuts, and iron-rich proteins.
5. Look After Both Partners’ Health
If you’re conceiving with a partner, sperm health is just as vital. Encourage lifestyle changes together to stay motivated and connected.
Midwife’s Top Tips
• It can take up to a year for most healthy people to conceive, this is normal
• Track your cycle and learn your fertile window
• Take folic acid and vitamin D from the start of your TTC journey
• Seek GP support early if you’re over 35 or have irregular cycles
• TTC is a journey, be kind to yourself and take breaks when needed
There’s no universal timeline for getting pregnant. Some people conceive quickly, while others take longer, even without any fertility problems. It’s easy to compare yourself to others, but your journey is entirely your own.
If things don’t happen right away, try not to lose heart. You’re not doing anything wrong, and support is available every step of the way.
