1. Home
2. Resources
3. PCRM Blog
4. 1 in 6 Canadians Struggle with Infertility: What That Really Means

1 in 6 Canadians Struggle with Infertility: What That Really Means

Canadian Fertility Awareness Week is a time to shine a light on a reality that affects millions of families across the country: 1 in 6 Canadian couples experience infertility.

It’s a statistic that often surprises people. Infertility can feel isolating, but it is far more common than many realize. At Pacific Centre for Reproductive Medicine (PCRM), we believe awareness reduces stigma. Understanding what infertility truly means can help individuals and couples feel less alone and more empowered to seek support.

What Does “1 in 6” Really Mean?

When we say 1 in 6, we’re talking about thousands of Canadians each year who struggle to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term.

Infertility is medically defined as:

• Trying to conceive for 12 months without success (if under age 35)
• Trying for 6 months without success (if over age 35)

But the experience is deeply personal. For some, infertility is diagnosed quickly. For others, it unfolds gradually through unanswered questions and uncertainty.

And importantly, infertility is not as rare as you may think.

Primary vs. Secondary Infertility

Infertility doesn’t only affect people trying to conceive their first child.

• Primary infertility: Difficulty conceiving a first pregnancy
• Secondary infertility: Difficulty conceiving after previously having a child

Secondary infertility is often misunderstood and can be emotionally complex. Many patients feel guilt or confusion when family-building plans change unexpectedly.
The truth? Both are medically valid experiences deserving of support.

What Causes Infertility?

One of the most important myths to dispel is that infertility is “usually a woman’s issue.” In reality:

Approximately 30–40% of infertility cases involve male factors
Approximately 30–40% involve female factors
The remaining cases are combined or unexplained

Common causes include:

• Ovulatory disorders
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometriosis
• Diminished ovarian reserve
• Tubal blockage
• Sperm quality or count issues
• Hormonal imbalances
• Age-related decline
• Unexplained infertility

Infertility is a medical condition, not a reflection of effort, lifestyle, or worth.

When Should You Seek Help?

We often hear, “Maybe we should just keep trying.” While hope is important, early evaluation can provide clarity and options.

You may consider seeing a fertility specialist if:

• You’re under 35 and have been trying for 12 months
• You’re over 35 and have been trying for 6 months
• You have irregular cycles
• You’ve experienced recurrent pregnancy loss
• You’ve had prior pelvic infections or surgeries
• You’re pursuing single parenthood or LGBTQ2S+ family building

An initial consultation typically includes a medical history review, hormone testing, semen analysis, or ultrasound assessment. Understanding your baseline can reduce uncertainty and open the door to informed decision-making.

Treatment Options: It’s Not “Straight to IVF”

Many people assume that seeing a fertility clinic automatically means IVF. That isn’t always the case.

Treatment is highly individualized and may include:

• Cycle monitoring
• Ovulation induction
• Timed intercourse
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
• In vitro fertilization (IVF)
• Egg freezing
• Third-party reproduction options

For some, simple interventions are enough. For others, advanced treatment may be the most effective path. The key is understanding your options.

Reducing Stigma Through Awareness

Infertility carries emotional weight, grief, anxiety, frustration, and isolation are common. Canadian Fertility Awareness Week reminds us that open conversations matter.

By acknowledging that 1 in 6 Canadians experience infertility, we normalize the conversation and reduce shame.

You are not alone.
You are not failing.
And you have options.

See all articles