Overview

Infertility is usually invisible.

But about 10 percent of people are infertile—defined as unable to conceive after one year of trying. Environmental risk factors contribute, and often genetics do too.

Fortunately, techniques such as in vitro fertilization have opened possibilities for many previously infertile couples. New data and clinical techniques are providing additional hope for many couples. Jackson Laboratory researchers are working to improve our understanding of how eggs and sperm are produced and what sometimes goes wrong with the process. Their findings have the potential to yield better and more effective contraception in addition to providing hope for infertile couples seeking children.