Unexplained (Idiopathic) Infertility

All fertility-directed testing is found to be normal in approximately 5% to 10% of couples attempting to conceive. In a much higher percentage of couples, only minor abnormalities are found that are not severe enough to directly result in infertility. In these cases, infertility is referred to as idiopathic, or unexplained. Couples with unexplained infertility may have subtle problems with egg quality, tubal function, or sperm function that are difficult to diagnose and treat specifically. Fertility drugs and inseminations have been used in this group with some success. If no pregnancy occurs within several treatment cycles, IVF may be recommended.