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What could cause infertility despite normal cycles at 38?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am a 38-year-old woman. My ovulation and menstrual cycles are regular, but I am not able to conceive.

What could be the problem?

Please help.

Answered by Dr. Ali Osman

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thanks for your question, and I understand your concern.

I am really worried about your concerns and would like to assure you that you are not alone here. In case you have normal menstruation and ovulation but haven’t conceived yet, you suffer from infertility. It is generally defined as when a couple has been trying for 12 months or more without success.

There are several possible reasons for this. Sometimes ovulation may not be strong enough, even if cycles appear regular, and polycystic ovary syndrome can prevent the release of eggs.

Blockage of fallopian tubes can stop the fertilization between egg and sperm and could be caused by infection and pelvic inflammation.

Some abnormalities in the uterus, such as fibroids, could also cause failure of implantation.

Fertility tends to decrease once a woman turns 35 years old, making pregnancy less likely. It is crucial to know that roughly 40 to 50 percent of infertility issues are associated with problems with sperm, including low sperm counts or low motility of the sperms.

Excessive weight affects the balance of hormones and ovulation. Tests that might be suggested by your physician include ovulation hormone levels, pelvic ultrasound, patency of tubes, and semen analysis for your partner.

In order to improve your fertility, it is recommended to have intercourse once every day or two during the ovulation period, keep yourself fit and slim, take folic acid supplementation, reduce stress, and abstain from smoking and alcohol intake.

Since you are 38 years old, it would be best if you consulted a gynecologist within six months rather than waiting for a whole year. Please tell me how many months you have been trying to conceive and whether you both have ever had any fertility tests before.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer.

You can consult me at iCliniq for further queries.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Ali Osman
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Published At June 24, 2026
Reviewed AtJuly 6, 2026

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Ali Osman
Dr. Ali Osman

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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