Infertility is the term used when a couple is having difficulty conceiving a baby despite having regular, unprotected sex. According to the NHS, around one in seven couples have difficulty conceiving – that’s approximately 3.5 million people in the UK.

For every 100 couples trying to have a baby, 20 will conceive within one month, 70 within six months, 85 within a year and 95 within two years. However, for couples who have been unsuccessfully trying for more than three years, the likelihood of getting pregnant within the next 12 months is 25 per cent or less.

In general, couples should see a GP if they have not conceived after one year of trying. Women aged over 36 and anyone who is aware that they may have fertility or health issues should see a GP after six months.