Why Can't I Get Pregnant?

Many women struggle to get pregnant and don't know what to do about it. Their desire to be a mom is so strong that they suffer a great deal when they don't conceive. There are many different reasons why you might not be able to get pregnant.
Why Can't I Get Pregnant?

Last update: 29 October, 2019

When trying to conceive, it’s important to be patient. However, some women start to worry early on when they’re not able to get pregnant and don’t the reasons why. In this article, we’ll explain some of the things that might be leading you to ask yourself, “why can’t I get pregnant?”

There are various things that can cause fertility problems in women. But before you start to worry about them, make sure that you give yourself enough time to try and conceive. If you’ve been trying for six months or more without success, then you should consult your doctor.

Why can’t I get pregnant?

Aside from the biological factors that your doctor will be able to diagnose, there are many other situations that can delay conception. If you’re starting to ask yourself, “Why can’t I get pregnant?”, have a look at the following possible answers:

1. Unhealthy eating

You don’t need to follow a strict diet to get pregnant, but you do need to eat properly. This means cutting down on fats, sugars, and alcohol. You don’t have to avoid them completely, but you do need to reduce your intake as much as you can.

If you’re one of those people who eats a lot of fried foods, burgers, or pizzas several times a week, you’ll have greater risk of ovarian disorders. This could be one reason why you’re struggling to conceive.

If this is the case, we recommend increasing your intake of fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes, and wholemeal flour to improve your health and be in the best condition to carry a pregnancy.

Why Can't I Get Pregnant?

2. Misinformation about fertility

Women who ask themselves “why can’t I get pregnant” often don’t realize that there are a number of different factors that need to be aligned. This is because conception occurs during a woman’s fertile days.

To find out when you’re more “receptive,” you need to know your ovulation period. This is the process whereby the egg is created and it happens mostly between the 12th and 16th day of your cycle.

One good idea is to keep track of your menstruation cycle and look to conceive on specific days. But also remember that sperm can survive for up to 72 hours in a woman’s body.

3. Too much exercise

Sports are good for your health, but too much could stop you from getting pregnant. Firstly, it’s good not to exercise every day since your body and muscles need time to rest and recover.

Secondly, when you exercise at maximum capacity, this creates an imbalance in several internal processes, including the menstrual cycle. If you want to keep fit, the best way is with a moderate workout three times a week.

“You don’t need to follow a strict diet to get pregnant, but you do need to eat properly. This means cutting down on fats, sugars, and alcohol.”

4. How often you have sex

When a couple decides to have a baby, they might think that they need to have sex every day. But this isn’t always possible and, moreover, it can become quite stressful.

Sex doesn’t need to be an obligation or an item on your daily to-do list. The recommended frequency is every two or three days to continually “replace” the sperm.

5. Low BMI

Having a low Body Mass Index can lead to a number of health problems including trouble getting pregnant. The risks range from ovarian disorders to infertility, miscarriages, and even premature births.

It’s very important to get the right amount of calories each day. Speak with a nutritionist to establish a specific diet according to your needs.

Why Can't I Get Pregnant?

6. Why can’t I get pregnant? It could also be due to stress

It’s true that when a couple is struggling to conceive, this can increase tension and arguments can become more frequent. Furthermore, if your job consumes a lot of your energy, you have many obligations, or if you don’t take time off work, the stress could be stopping you from getting pregnant.

Female fertility is a delicate matter and can easily be disrupted. When trying to get pregnant, it’s important to stay calm and enjoy it. If you haven’t managed to conceive after six to eight months, book an appointment with your doctor.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Rosas, M. R. (2008). Infertilidad femenina. Un problema multifactorial. OFFARM.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.