Fertility basics
Fertility depends on several things working together — regular ovulation, sperm that can reach and fertilise an egg, open fallopian tubes, and a uterus that can support a pregnancy. It is not a fixed quality. Fertility changes with age, health and circumstances, and a single test result rarely describes it on its own. In Australia, most people are advised to see a GP if they have not conceived after 12 months of regular unprotected sex, or after six months if the female partner is 35 or older.
Also known as: fertile, reproductive potential
Related Australia guides
Related checklists
Sources
- Healthdirect Australia (healthdirect.gov.au)
- Your Fertility, a national public education programme (yourfertility.org.au)
Last reviewed: 10 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.