Trying to Conceive: How Long Does it Take to Become Pregnant?

So you have decided to start trying to conceive! You can’t wait to begin buying clothes, furniture, and diapers and may have already made a few innocent purchases. But, before you start investing in your anticipated bundle of joy, have you seriously considered the length of time it may take to realize your dream of becoming a pregnant? Many couples are surprised (and disappointed) to learn that conception does not always occur during the first month of trying. In fact, statistics show that most actively trying couples achieve pregnancy sometime between the first and ninth months of trying to conceive.

Trying to Conceive Statistics

Beginning with the first month of trying to conceive, each couple will realize a 25% chance of becoming pregnant with that percentage remaining the same each subsequent month. You may also be surprised to learn that, of the couples trying to conceive, approximately:

• 60% will become pregnant within the first 6 months
• 75% will become pregnant within the first 9 months
• 90% will become pregnant within the first 18 months

That leaves 10% of couples actively trying to conceive searching for fertility treatment.

Age May Matter

Age may impact your chances of becoming pregnant each month. The March of Dimes reports that women in their mid- to early 30's may only have a 15% chance of becoming pregnant each month while women over the age of 35 may only have a 5% chance each month.

The Fertility Drug Impact

Women are often surprised to learn that the use of most fertility drugs does not increase their monthly chances of becoming pregnant.  While drugs like Clomid, the hCG injection, and Femara can trigger ovulation or make a woman's ovulation stronger, the chances of becoming pregnant while on these drugs remain the same as those of a fertile woman who is not on fertility drugs. 

Your Custom Fertility Statistics

If you meet one of the following criteria and are concerned about your chances of becoming pregnant, then you should consult your women's healthcare provider.

• Under the age of 30 and have been actively trying to conceive for 12 or more months
• Over the age of 30 and have been actively trying to conceive for 6 or more months
• Over the age of 35 and would like to begin trying to conceive

When considering your monthly chances of becoming pregnant do not become discouraged.  Just remember, if becoming pregnant was too difficult we would not have the population that we have today!