If you've been trying to conceive for a while, it's normal to start to feel concerned about why you're not getting pregnant. There are a number of signs you can't get pregnant to look out for if you're worried about infertility.
Remember, it's always important to speak to your GP if you're concerned about infertility.
Before jumping to conclusions, remember it's important to remind yourself that it takes two to make a baby. Although it's normal for us women to blame ourselves, it could be your male partner who is having the fertility struggles.
To help you try and figure out why you might be struggling to get pregnant, we've rounded up the most common signs you can't get pregnant in both men and women to think about before visiting your doctor for expert help and advice on your journey to starting a family.
Signs you can't get pregnant in women
No periods
One of the most common signs you can't get pregnant is often an issue with ovulation. If your period hasn't shown up for a few months, it could mean that you aren't ovulating. Keep in mind however that things like stress and diet can impact your period too.
Hormone fluctuations
If you're experiencing reduced sex drive, weight gain, thinning hair, an increase in facial hair and skin problems then it could mean that there's a hormone imbalance impacting your fertility. If you have any of these symptoms and are struggling to conceive then speak to your doctor.
Irregular periods
While no period at all is an obvious concern, an irregular menstrual cycle can also be a sign of potential fertility issues. Not only does it make it difficult for you to know when you're ovulating and at your most fertile, irregular periods can also be a sign of PCOS, a common cause of female infertility.
Endometriosis
Common signs of endometriosis include very heavy and painful periods (that stop you from living your daily life normally) and also pain during sex. Endometriosis could cause fertility problems, so it's worth speaking to your GP if you suspect you have it.
Signs you can't get pregnant in men
Erectile dysfunction
Trouble maintaining an erection in the bedroom could be a sign of hormone issues that could be caused by male infertility.
Testicle pain
Any pain or swelling in the testicles could be a sign of a male fertility issue. Furthermore, if the testicles appear quite small and firm, it could be another cause for concern and should be checked out by a doctor.
Issues ejaculating
An inability to ejaculate will obviously result in fertility struggles and it's definitely a sign you should see a doctor.
Low sex drive
Any changes in your libido could indicate a hormone change. If you're usually quite eager to try for a baby and you've noticed a drop in this desire, then it could be a sign of a fertility problems and should get checked out by a GP.