How long is 'normal' when it comes to getting pregnant?

For some couples getting pregnant doesn't just happen the first time they have unprotected sex - and it can take some time. Many factors contribute to your chances of conceiving: age, general health, reproductive health and how often you have sex.

But time can be a major factor. In fact, 92 percent of women aged 19-26 will take a year to become pregnant after having regular unprotected sex, while 98 percent in the same age category will conceive within two years.

However, as we all know, the older a woman becomes the less fertile she will be: 82 percent will be pregnant within a year in the 35 – 39 age group; 90 percent will conceive after two years.

1. So what does 'have regular sex' mean?

Well it means having unprotected sex every two to three days throughout the month.

Some doctors advise that the best try to have intercourse is when the woman ovulates (releases an egg) others are against this idea so do talk to your GP first.

2. When should I be worried?

Getting pregnant can take time, even if everything seems aligned: your health and your age. And while it may seem a little unfair, some women do just get pregnant quicker than others.

Remember, you only have about a 25 percent possibility of getting pregnant in each monthly cycle.

However, while there is no set time-frame for conceiving, you should contact your GP or a fertility expert if you are still trying within a year. There is no harm going to talk to someone to alleviate any worries or stress.