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What is Unexplained Infertility and What Are My Treatment Options?

What is Unexplained Infertility and What Are My Treatment Options?

Wondering what’s next after months of trying to conceive and no clear answers? Proven treatments can help turn unexplained infertility into new possibilities.


For many couples, trying to conceive is an exciting and hopeful time. But when pregnancy doesn’t happen as expected, the experience can quickly become stressful and confusing. If you’ve undergone fertility testing and your results appear normal, you may receive a diagnosis of unexplained infertility.

At Innovative Women’s Care in Las Vegas, Nevada, board-certified OB/GYN provider Marguerite Brathwaite, MD, F.A.C.O.G, offers compassionate infertility care to help women grow their families.

Understanding unexplained infertility

Unexplained infertility refers to the inability to conceive after a year of trying (or six months for women over 35) despite normal test results. This diagnosis is typically given when common causes of infertility, such as ovulation disorders, blocked fallopian tubes, low sperm count, or hormonal imbalances, have been ruled out through standard evaluations.

It’s estimated that unexplained infertility accounts for up to 30% of infertility cases

While “unexplained” can feel frustrating, it doesn’t mean nothing is wrong—it simply means current testing methods haven’t identified a clear cause. Subtle issues with egg quality, sperm function, fertilization, or embryo implantation may be involved, but they aren’t easily detected with routine tests.

When to seek help

If you've been trying to conceive without success, schedule an appointment with Dr.  Brathwaite.  Early evaluation can help identify any obvious issues and provide peace of mind. For couples with a diagnosis of unexplained infertility, there are still many options to help improve the chances of conception.

Treatment options to consider

While every individual’s journey is unique, several treatment strategies have shown success for those with unexplained infertility:

1. Lifestyle modifications

Before starting medical treatments, Dr. Brathwaite may recommend changes to improve fertility naturally. This can include maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, managing stress, and timing intercourse with ovulation. 

Tracking ovulation through basal body temperature, ovulation predictor kits, or apps can help improve the timing and chances of conception.

2. Fertility medications

Ovulation-stimulating medications like Clomid (clomiphene citrate) or letrozole are often used to increase the number of eggs released during ovulation. Even if you ovulate regularly, these medications may improve your chances by creating more opportunities for fertilization.

3. Additional testing and second opinions

In some cases, further testing may uncover subtle issues missed in the initial evaluation, such as low-level endometriosis or immune factors. Dr. Brathwaite may refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist to explore more advanced diagnostics or discuss additional treatment options.

You are not alone

Unexplained infertility can feel like an emotional rollercoaster, but it’s important to remember that many couples with this diagnosis go on to have healthy pregnancies. There is hope with compassionate care, expert guidance, and the right treatment plan. Your OB/GYN team is here to help you understand your options and support you every step of the way.

Call the office or schedule an appointment online today.