What to know before, during, and after seeking help to conceive
1 in 6couples experience infertility
Last reviewed: April 2026
Trying to conceive can be one of the most emotional experiences of your life, especially when it does not happen on your expected timeline. If you are feeling frustrated, worried, or just unsure about next steps, you are not alone. About 1 in 6 couples worldwide experience infertility, and it is far more common than most people realize.
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse (or 6 months if you are over 35). It is a medical condition, not a personal failing. And in most cases, there are real, effective options.
Arizona has several highly regarded fertility clinics, and many treatment options are more accessible than they were even a few years ago. This guide covers the basics of fertility, when to seek help, what testing looks like, and the differences between common treatments.
When to Start Asking Questions
General guidelines suggest seeing a specialist if you are under 35 and have been trying for 12 months without success, you are 35 to 39 and have been trying for 6 months, you are 40 or older (consider seeing a specialist before you start trying), you have irregular or absent periods, you have a known condition like PCOS or endometriosis, or your partner has a known fertility concern.
You do not have to wait the full 12 or 6 months if something feels off. Trust your instincts and talk to your OB-GYN sooner if you have concerns.
Common Causes of Infertility
Infertility is not just a women's issue. Roughly one-third of cases are related to female factors, one-third to male factors, and one-third are unexplained or a combination of both.
Common female causes include ovulation disorders (PCOS is the most common), blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, diminished ovarian reserve (fewer eggs remaining), and uterine abnormalities. Common male causes include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and structural issues. Age is a factor for both partners, though the decline in egg quality after 35 is more significant than age-related changes in sperm.
Starting with Your OB-GYN
You do not necessarily need a fertility specialist right away. Your OB-GYN can order initial testing and often manage early-stage treatment. A good first step is a conversation about your history, cycle patterns, and any risk factors.
If initial testing reveals a clear issue or if first-line treatments do not work, your OB-GYN will refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist (RE), a doctor who specializes in fertility medicine. Think of your OB-GYN as the starting point and the RE as the specialist you bring in when you need more targeted help.
What Fertility Testing Looks Like
Testing is typically straightforward, though it involves several steps. For the female partner, common tests include bloodwork to check hormone levels (FSH, AMH, estradiol, and thyroid), an ultrasound to assess ovarian reserve (antral follicle count), and a hysterosalpingogram (HSG), which is an X-ray that checks whether the fallopian tubes are open.
For the male partner, a semen analysis is usually the first and most important test. It evaluates sperm count, motility, and shape. Additional testing may include hormone levels or a physical exam. Testing can feel invasive and stressful, but it gives your care team the information they need to recommend the right approach.
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
IUI is a relatively simple procedure where sperm is washed, concentrated, and placed directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation. It is often combined with ovulation-stimulating medications to improve the chances.
IUI is typically a good first step for couples with unexplained infertility, mild male factor infertility, or ovulation issues. Success rates vary, but generally range from 10 to 20% per cycle. Most providers recommend trying 3 to 4 IUI cycles before considering IVF. IUI is less invasive and significantly less expensive than IVF.
IVF (In Vitro Fertilization)
IVF involves stimulating the ovaries with injectable medications to produce multiple eggs, retrieving those eggs in a brief outpatient procedure, fertilizing them with sperm in a lab, and transferring an embryo to the uterus several days later.
IVF success rates depend heavily on age and other factors. For women under 35, national average success rates per cycle are around 40 to 50%. Rates decline with age. IVF is a bigger commitment in terms of time, physical demands, and cost, but it is the most effective fertility treatment available and continues to improve.
The Emotional Side
Fertility struggles can take a real toll on your mental health and your relationships. Grief, frustration, jealousy, guilt, and isolation are all common and all valid. You are not "too sensitive" for feeling these things.
Consider working with a therapist who specializes in reproductive mental health. Many Arizona fertility clinics have counselors on staff or can provide referrals. Support groups, both in-person and online, can also help you feel less alone. RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association has Arizona chapter resources.
Cost and Insurance in Arizona
Arizona is not a state that mandates fertility insurance coverage, which means coverage varies widely by employer and plan. IUI typically costs $500 to $2,000 per cycle (plus medications). IVF can range from $12,000 to $20,000 per cycle.
Some Arizona fertility clinics offer payment plans, shared-risk programs (partial refund if treatment does not result in pregnancy), and financing options. Medications can sometimes be obtained at lower cost through specialty pharmacies or manufacturer discount programs. Ask your clinic's financial counselor about all available options before starting treatment.
Steps to Take Before Your First Fertility Appointment
Track your menstrual cycles for at least 2 to 3 months (apps like Clue or Flo can help)
Schedule a semen analysis for the male partner (your OB-GYN can order this)
Compile your medical history, including past surgeries, medications, and known conditions
Start a prenatal vitamin with folic acid if you have not already
Make a list of your questions and concerns to bring to the appointment
Check your insurance plan for fertility coverage details
Consider your budget and research financing options
Cut back on alcohol, stop smoking, and limit caffeine for both partners
Ready to find a provider?
Search Arizona providers who specialize in this area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it normally take to get pregnant?
About 80% of couples conceive within 6 months of trying, and 90% within 12 months. If you are under 35 and have not conceived after a year, or over 35 after 6 months, it is time to seek evaluation. These timelines are guidelines, not deadlines.
Does age really affect fertility that much?
Yes. Female fertility begins to decline more noticeably after age 35, with a sharper drop after 40. This is primarily due to declining egg quality and quantity. Male fertility also declines with age, though more gradually. Age is the single most significant factor in fertility.
Is IVF the only option for infertility?
No. Many couples conceive with simpler interventions like ovulation medication, IUI, or treating an underlying condition like PCOS or endometriosis. IVF is typically recommended when other treatments have not worked or when specific factors make it the most effective option.
Does stress cause infertility?
Stress alone is unlikely to cause infertility, but chronic stress can affect ovulation and sperm production. Managing stress is important for your overall well-being during this process. However, telling someone to "just relax" is not helpful or accurate medical advice.
Are there fertility specialists in Arizona outside of Phoenix?
Yes. While most fertility clinics are concentrated in the Phoenix and Tucson metro areas, many offer satellite offices in places like Scottsdale, Mesa, Gilbert, and Chandler. Telehealth consultations are increasingly available for initial evaluations and follow-up appointments.