ABSTRACT
Introduction Fertility investigations should normally be instigated as soon as the couple seeks help. Even if they have been trying for less than a year it is worthwhile asking some general questions to ensure that major problems, such as irregularities of the menstrual cycle, a history of pelvic surgery, or orchidopexy have not been ignored. If the couple’s medical history is normal the expected cumulative chance of conception over a period of time should be explained and investigations deferred until they have been trying for a year. When the female partner is aged 35 years or older, monthly fecundity is significantly reduced but I do not believe that investigations should be delayed proportionately because of the concomitant age-related decline in the success of treatment (see Chapter 1).
