Want to get pregnant? There’s more to it than you think

Conceiving a child is often less efficient than common sex education suggests, with healthy couples having only a 25 to 30 percent chance of pregnancy per cycle. Reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Lucky Sekhon and reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Sarah Oreck emphasize that fertility is a complex confluence of factors, including timing, genetics, and age, rather than a fully controllable process. Tracking menstrual cycles—ideally without hormonal birth control—provides essential data for identifying ovulation windows and potential health issues like endometriosis or PCOS. Male fertility, which accounts for half of all cases, is highly testable and often improved through lifestyle adjustments such as reducing heat exposure and substance use. Ultimately, while age 35 marks a significant turning point for egg quality and quantity, no single test guarantees results, making the process an educated guess that requires patience and realistic expectations.