Yes, you can, but a low sperm count can make it harder to conceive. This is purely down to the numbers: there’s less sperm present within the semen, so the odds that one will successfully fertilise the egg are lower. There are ways that both you and your partner can increase your chances of conceiving. Take a look through our expert-led masterclasses on conception to learn more.

The process of fertilisation takes up to 24 hours after you ovulate. This is because the egg only lives for 12-24 hours. 

During fertilisation, the sperm first goes through some changes once it’s inside the uterus (this takes about 5-6 hours) and then travels up the Fallopian tubes, binds to an egg and penetrates its surface. Once it’s in, the outer layer of the egg hardens, which completes the process.

Yes, it’s possible for this to happen. After fertilisation is complete (the process is described above), in a successful pregnancy the egg would implant into the lining of the womb about 5-6 days later, where it begins to grow. Implantation is the point where you’re officially considered pregnant. 

But, for various reasons, not all fertilised eggs will attach to the lining of the womb—and this is true for people trying to conceive naturally and those undergoing fertility treatment. For example, both the womb lining and fertilised egg go through a series of intricate changes to prepare for implantation, but sometimes the timing is off and they aren’t ready for each other in time. 

The cost of fertility treatment that isn’t available on the NHS can vary between providers. But to give you an idea, one cycle of IUI can be around £700-£1,600, while a cycle of IVF can be closer to £5,000. This doesn’t include additional fees, like for medication or consultations with specialists. If you need to use a sperm donor, this can cost around £950 per vial. 

Check with your GP to see if you’re eligible for treatment on the NHS.

Your fertile window is the period of time when conception is possible. It’s the number of days that both sperm and egg can survive for: for most people, this is five days before ovulation and the day of. Sperm can live for up to five days once inside the vagina, while an egg lasts for 12-24 hours.

Very common, so if you’re going through this know that you aren’t alone. In the UK, it’s estimated that one in seven heterosexual couples are affected by infertility—which is when you don’t get pregnant after trying for a year, or over six months if you’re older than 35. 

According to the World Health Organisation, about 17.5% of the adult population (about one in six worldwide) experience infertility.