Around 9% of couples are involuntarily childless. At least a quarter of couples experience unexpected delays in achieving their desired family size,1 although only a half seek treatment. In recent years, publicity about infertility treatments has increased, and couples are now more willing to seek advice. The first of these two brief reviews covers the main causes of infertility, with particular reference to advances in the past five years; the second review will look at polycystic ovary syndrome and anovulatory infertility.

The role of the general practitioner is to initiate the investigation of both partners and ensure timely onward referral to a specialist clinic. Treatments for infertility are never far from the public eye, often courting controversy and ethical dilemmas. This article aims to provide general practitioners with a balanced and evidence based overview of the latest advances and where they fit into current practice.