Fertility basics
Fertility describes how likely a person or couple is to conceive within a given time. It depends on egg and sperm quality, ovulation, open fallopian tubes, a healthy womb and the timing of sex within the fertile window. Fertility changes over a lifetime and is affected by age, health conditions, infections, weight, smoking and some medicines. Because so many factors interact, one normal test result does not by itself confirm fertility, and one abnormal result does not rule out pregnancy.
Also known as: fertile, ability to conceive
Related South Africa guides
Sources
- World Health Organization — infertility and reproductive health definitions
Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.